Egypt Reaffirms Exclusive Red Sea Access for Bordering Nations and…

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty asserted that only bordering nations should have access to the Red Sea, reaffirming Egypt’s support for Somalia’s sovereignty. The bilateral talks emphasized cooperation in multiple sectors, aiming to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership. Plans for an Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum in January 2025 were announced, alongside discussions on regional stability and security initiatives.

During a press conference held in Cairo, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized that access to the Red Sea should be exclusive to countries bordering it, explicitly excluding non-bordering nations. This statement emerged in conjunction with discussions regarding Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty, underscoring its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity. Minister Abdelatty articulated Egypt’s rejection of any unilateral actions that could threaten Somalia’s unity and safety, reinforcing the collaborative spirit between the two nations.

The bilateral discussions between Egypt and Somalia, led by Abdelatty and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, highlighted the historical ties and the shared objectives aimed at strengthening relations. Minister Fiqi acknowledged Egypt’s pivotal role in fostering the development of the Somali state, particularly expressing gratitude for Egypt’s support, which he deemed essential for preserving Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both ministers acknowledged the significance of collaborative measures to address unprecedented regional challenges.

Their dialogues extended into various avenues for advancing cooperation across political, trade, economic, military, security, and educational sectors. Both parties expressed a mutual desire to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership, mirroring the historical connections shared by their countries. Additionally, the ministers emphasized the necessity for regular political consultations to fortify their cooperative resolve.

Minister Abdelatty announced plans for an Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum to be convened in Cairo in January 2025, aimed at bolstering trade relations. This forum is set to enhance interactions between the private sectors of both nations, thus expanding cooperative endeavors beyond governmental engagements. Both ministers are committed to educational collaboration, with an emphasis on increasing scholarship opportunities for Somali students through Egyptian institutions.

The meeting further addressed important regional security issues, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in the Horn of Africa. Both Abdelatty and Fiqi stressed the urgency of expediting the formation of the new African Union Mission for Support and Stability in Somalia (AUSSOM). There was a call for sustainable funding from the African Union’s partners to support ongoing efforts against terrorism and stabilize the region, with Fiqi noting Somalia’s aspiration for Egypt’s involvement in the mission, given its military prowess and experience.

The interplay between Egypt and Somalia regarding the Red Sea’s accessibility highlights regional diplomatic dynamics. Historically, the Red Sea is a critical navigation route, making its control a significant geopolitical issue. Egypt’s clear stance on the exclusivity of Red Sea access to bordering nations underscores its assertive diplomatic strategy. Furthermore, Somalia, which has been grappling with territorial and governance challenges, seeks strong partnerships to reinforce its sovereignty. Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia adds a layer of complexity, showcasing how bilateral relationships can contribute to regional stability and cooperative security efforts in a historically tumultuous area.

The recent discussions between Egypt and Somalia reflect a deepening commitment to mutual sovereignty and regional stability. Through diplomatic dialogues and initiatives such as the planned Egyptian-Somali Economic Forum, both nations aim to enhance bilateral relations across various sectors. These efforts signify a concerted approach toward establishing a strategic partnership that not only fortifies their historical ties but also addresses contemporary challenges, paving the way for a more stable Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com