Egypt and Djibouti’s foreign ministers met to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on port connections, security in the Horn of Africa, and regional stability. They discussed cooperation in economic development, counterterrorism efforts in Somalia, and maritime security in the Red Sea, emphasizing their historic ties and mutual support in international forums.
On Sunday, the foreign ministers of Egypt and Djibouti engaged in political consultations aimed at strengthening their bilateral relations, particularly through a potential connection between Egyptian ports and Djibouti. This dialogue followed a meeting earlier in the day between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, underscoring the close ties between the nations.
During this meeting, Youssouf delivered a message from Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh to President Al-Sisi, expressing gratitude for Egypt’s support. Al-Sisi reciprocated, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to fortifying the partnership with Djibouti.
According to a spokesperson from the Egyptian Presidency, the discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in various areas, including economic collaboration and shared national objectives. Notably, the ministers also addressed security concerns in the Horn of Africa, particularly the situation in Somalia, emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to supporting its unity and stability.
Furthermore, the meeting touched upon security in the Red Sea, with both leaders recognizing the crucial need for cooperative efforts to secure navigation routes in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Youssouf then conducted their meeting, reaffirming the historical ties and mutual aspirations for enhanced collaboration.
Minister Abdelatty described the advancements in bilateral relations, especially in economic development, and committed to supporting Djibouti’s infrastructure and various sectors. He stated, “We discussed linking Egyptian ports with Djibouti and cooperation in the logistics sector, given its significant importance to both countries.”
Abdelatty emphasized the importance of maritime security and highlighted plans to establish an Egyptian logistics zone in Djibouti to bolster trade. Youssouf characterized the relationship between Egypt and Djibouti as exceptional and noted the necessity for ongoing consultation amid geopolitical developments in the region.
Youssouf recognized Egypt’s vital role in the African Union and its contributions towards continental cooperation. The ministers conversed about regional developments, counterterrorism efforts in Somalia, and the pressing situation in Sudan, underscoring the need for stabilizing efforts.
The conversation also included discussions about improving the African Union’s activities, expediting the implementation of Agenda 2063, and reforming the African Peace and Security Council. They agreed on mutual support for each country’s candidacies in international forums.
This article outlines the recent discussions between Egyptian and Djiboutian officials regarding the strengthening of diplomatic and economic ties, emphasizing security concerns in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. The engagement reflects both countries’ commitment to enhancing cooperation on shared objectives, particularly in maritime security, infrastructure development, and regional stability. It highlights the close geographical and strategic relationship between Egypt and Djibouti as they navigate their roles within the African Union and broader regional dynamics.
In conclusion, the political consultations between Egypt and Djibouti signify a commitment to fostering bilateral relations through economic collaboration and security initiatives, particularly in light of regional instability. The ministers’ discussions reflect ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation in various sectors while addressing maritime security and supporting Somalia’s stability. The commitment to mutual support in international platforms further strengthens their partnership.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
