Cairo,[SONNA] – The president of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, currently on an official visit to Egypt, engaged in a high-level meeting with President Abdulfatah Al-Sisi of the Republic of Egypt. The discussions focused on regional security, the Arab strategy in the Red Sea, counter-terrorism efforts, and fostering intergenerational cooperation between the two nations.
Following the comprehensive talks, both leaders addressed the media in a joint press conference, highlighting the outcomes of their deliberations. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed gratitude for Egypt’s enduring support and collaboration, emphasizing their joint commitment to creating a prosperous and sustainable future. He underscored Somalia’s cooperation with allies and international friends to safeguard the country’s independence and unity.
“The Egyptian government and its people are longstanding allies and brothers who always work together for a bright future and sustainable development. Today’s discussions demonstrate our commitment to strengthening diplomatic, security, and political relations,” stated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
President Hassan Sheikh extended appreciation to Egypt for its fraternal stance against Ethiopia’s greed ambitions in the Somali Sea. The President also presented the economic and strategic importance of the Red Sea, and said that Somalia has a great share in this sea, which the government and its people do not accept that another country violates their rights.
President Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi echoed concerns about the security, socio-economic, and political repercussions of Ethiopia’s actions, emphasizing Egypt’s solidarity with Somalia against any threat to its unity and territorial integrity. He cited the Arab League’s mandate to jointly defend member countries facing existential threats.
“The law of the Arab League stipulates that we must jointly defend any Arab country that is facing an existential threat, so the Egyptian government does not accept any interference that violates the unity and security of Somalia. Egypt’s power should not be tested by threatening its brothers, especially the brotherly countries that ask us to stand by them.” remarked President Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi.
The leaders exchanged information on reinforcing traditional cooperation between the two countries. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was praised by his Egyptian counterpart on the significant achievements in Somali security, the fight against terrorism, and recent milestones such as the lifting of the arms embargo, debt relief, and integration into the East African Community’. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to regional stability and collaboration.