Sisi Champions Regional Support for Somalia’s Security Restoration
On October 11, 2024, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened in Asmara to agree on comprehensive support for Somalia’s security restoration through its national army. They underscored the importance of regional cooperation, maritime security in the Red Sea, and addressing tensions over a recent Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement. The meeting emphasized the need to enhance trade and investment ties among the three countries.
On 11 October 2024, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi convened with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Asmara. The leaders reached a consensus to extend comprehensive support for the restoration of security in Somalia through its national army, aligning with President Mohamud’s vision for national stability. During a joint press conference, President Sisi articulated the discussions surrounding support proposals that would be facilitated through bilateral and multilateral channels, incorporating regional and international efforts aimed at fostering peace in Somalia. He emphasized the gravity of their meeting, stating, “We convened today to consult and share perspectives on how to counter plans and actions aimed at destabilizing and fragmenting countries in the region…” Egypt reiterated its commitment to Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity, particularly in light of escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa stemming from a contentious agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a state not recognized by Egypt. President Mohamud expressed strong opposition to the deal, asserting, “No one has the power to give away a piece of Somalia.” Moreover, the leaders recognized the necessity of collaboration among nations bordering the Red Sea, amidst disruptions in global maritime navigation. They agreed to establish institutional coordination to ensure maritime safety and to maximize the region’s natural resource potential. Additionally, the leaders addressed the ongoing crisis in Sudan, insisting on urgent efforts to maintain a ceasefire and protect Sudanese national institutions. President Sisi praised the meeting as a testament to the robust partnership among the three nations, calling for the enhancement of trade and investment ties and joint capacity building endeavors. He reiterated the intent to unlock the collective potential of the countries to advance development and prosperity for their peoples.
The meeting between President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia highlights the geopolitical dynamics and cooperative efforts in the Horn of Africa. This assumes particular significance due to the ongoing tensions surrounding Somalia’s territorial integrity and the recent developments involving Ethiopia and Somaliland. The leaders’ commitment to supporting Somalia’s security restoration reflects not only a diplomatic alliance but also a strategic initiative to counter regional instability and promote economic collaboration, particularly concerning maritime security in the Red Sea.
The collective agreement among the leaders underscores a decisive step towards enhancing security in Somalia and reinforces their dedication to regional cooperation amidst external pressures and conflicts. Their discussions on economic collaboration and maritime safety signify a broader commitment to addressing shared challenges in the region, highlighting the urgency for sustained diplomatic engagement to ensure peace and development.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
