(WNAM Monitoring): Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi has vowed to stand by Somalia in its dispute with Ethiopia over the latter’s deal with the regional administration of Somaliland. He said that any threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and security would be considered as a threat to Egypt and the Arab world.
President Al-Sisi made these remarks during a joint press conference with his Somali counterpart, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is on an official visit to Cairo. The two leaders discussed various issues of mutual interest, including regional security, counter-terrorism, and the Arab strategy in the Red Sea.
President Mohamud thanked Egypt for its consistent support and cooperation, and praised its role in defending the rights and interests of the Arab and African nations. He said that Somalia and Egypt share a common vision of a prosperous and stable future, and that they are committed to strengthening their diplomatic, security, and political ties.
President Mohamud also expressed his appreciation to Egypt for its firm stance against Ethiopia’s ambitions in the Somali Sea. He said that Somalia has a legitimate claim to the waters and resources of the Red Sea, and that it will not tolerate any violation of its sovereignty by another country.
President Al-Sisi affirmed Egypt’s solidarity with Somalia against Ethiopia’s actions, which he said could have serious consequences for the region and the world. He said that Egypt, as a member of the Arab League, has a duty to protect any Arab country that is facing an existential threat. He warned Ethiopia not to test Egypt’s power or to threaten its brothers, especially those who seek its help.
President Al-Sisi also commended President Mohamud for his achievements in restoring security and stability in Somalia, and for his efforts to combat terrorism and extremism. He congratulated him on the recent milestones that Somalia has reached, such as the lifting of the arms embargo, the debt relief, and the integration into the East African Community. He said that Egypt will continue to support Somalia’s development and reconstruction.
The two leaders concluded their meeting by reaffirming their commitment to regional peace and cooperation, and to enhancing the historical and fraternal relations between their countries.
