Egypt’s Foreign Minister affirms Red Sea access exclusively for bordering nations while pledging support for Somalia’s sovereignty during talks with Somali counterpart. The ministers aim to strengthen bilateral ties through a strategic partnership, enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including economic and military. An Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum is set for 2025 to develop trade relations and educational cooperation.
On Monday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty declared that access to the Red Sea should be restricted solely to nations that share borders with it, asserting that no other parties should be allowed entry. During a joint press conference with Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi in Cairo, Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to upholding Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the importance of Somalia’s government gaining authority over all of its territory. He highlighted Egypt’s rejection of any unilateral actions that could undermine Somalia’s unity and safety.
The press conference underscored the historical ties between Egypt and Somalia, with both ministers acknowledging their ongoing efforts to strengthen their bilateral relationship across various sectors. Minister Fiqi expressed gratitude towards Egypt for its support in bolstering Somalia’s sovereignty, noting the key role Egypt plays in the state-building process. He praised Egypt’s involvement in the signing of the Ankara Declaration, aimed at ensuring Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.
The ministers engaged in extensive discussions about political, trade, economic, military, and educational opportunities to advance their bilateral relationship and address critical regional issues affecting both nations. They agreed to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership, which will also involve reciprocal visits among leaders and officials of both countries.
Additionally, the Egyptian Foreign Minister announced plans for an Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum to be held in Cairo in January 2025, designed to enhance economic and trade relations. He also mentioned initiatives aimed at fostering private-sector collaboration between Egyptian and Somali businesses. The partnership will extend to educational and cultural exchanges, with plans to increase scholarships for Somali students.
As they concluded their talks, both ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening the strategic partnership and supporting Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in alignment with international law. They expressed their commitment to the formation of the African Union Mission for Support and Stability in Somalia (AUSSOM) and stressed the necessity for sustainable funding to address regional unrest and bolster the Somali National Army’s capabilities in combating terrorism. Both sides agreed on the momentum of existing military cooperation and the significant potential for further collaboration in combating terrorism and strengthening state institutions.
The discussions between Egypt and Somalia reflect a growing strategic partnership aiming to enhance bilateral relations in various sectors, particularly in the context of regional security and sovereignty. Egypt’s reaffirmation of Somalia’s territorial integrity and its commitment to assist in state-building are crucial amid ongoing challenges in the Horn of Africa. The Ankara Declaration exemplifies both nations’ resolve to maintain Somalia’s unity and stability, which is essential for fostering economic development and addressing security threats within the region. This strategic partnership signals a shift towards greater collaboration in military, economic, and educational initiatives.
In conclusion, the recent dialogues between Egyptian and Somali officials underscore a mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation and addressing shared challenges. The emphasis on empowering Somalia’s governmental sovereignty, coupled with the establishment of a strategic partnership and upcoming economic forums, reflects both nations’ aspirations for stability and development. As Egypt continues to support Somalia in its state-building efforts, the collaborative approach may yield significant progress in addressing regional conflicts and enhancing economic relations.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
