Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamed visited Cairo on Wednesday to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. The visit marked a significant step in the relationship between the two nations, as they signed a new military cooperation protocol. This agreement highlights the growing ties between Somalia and Egypt, especially in the realm of defense and security.
A Commitment to Somalia’s Sovereignty
After the signing ceremony, President El Sisi made Egypt’s position clear. He affirmed his country’s commitment to preserving Somalia’s territorial integrity and strongly rejected any foreign interference in Somali internal affairs. His remarks underscored Egypt’s stance on national sovereignty and non-intervention, which has long been a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
A Historic Pact for Defense and Security
During the press conference following the meeting, President Mohamud praised the newly signed pact as a historic milestone. He called it a “testament to a future of common defense” against international terrorism, which both countries are actively fighting. The agreement is expected to serve as a blueprint for the exchange of knowledge and expertise in the pursuit of regional, continental, and global peace and security.
Condolences and Congratulations
President El Sisi extended his condolences to the Somali people for the recent terrorist attack in Mogadishu. He also congratulated Somalia on the lifting of international sanctions and its upcoming term on the United Nations Security Council in 2025-2026. Somalia was awarded a non-permanent seat on the council in April, a significant achievement for the country.
Improving Ties Between Egypt and Somalia
In his remarks, President El Sisi highlighted the steps Egypt has taken to strengthen ties with Somalia. These include the reopening of a renovated Egyptian embassy in Mogadishu, the resumption of Egyptair flights between Cairo and the Somali capital, and the presence of Egypt’s Banque Misr in Somalia. These efforts demonstrate Egypt’s commitment to fostering closer relations with Somalia in various sectors.
Egypt’s Non-Interference Policy
Reiterating Egypt’s policy of non-interference, President El Sisi stated, “We always call for construction, development, and reconstruction, and we never interfere in the affairs of states.” He emphasized that Egypt’s foreign policy is guided by respect for international law, norms, and the sovereignty of states. He also expressed Egypt’s willingness to contribute troops to the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, but only if requested.
Tensions with Ethiopia
The new defense pact between Somalia and Egypt has heightened tensions with Ethiopia. Egypt has long supported Somalia’s unity and has rejected an agreement between Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi. The deal would grant landlocked Ethiopia access to 20 kilometers of Somalia’s coastline for a naval base. This agreement is seen as a threat to Egypt’s military and economic interests in the Red Sea.
Strategic Manoeuvring by Egypt
According to African affairs analyst Hatim Dirdiri, the defense pact between Somalia and Egypt is a strategic move by Cairo. Egypt has been rallying African support in its ongoing dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which threatens Egypt’s share of the Nile’s waters. The pact with Somalia, Dirdiri noted, took many by surprise, especially Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who now faces growing isolation in the Horn of Africa.
Unresolved Talks and Future Challenges
The tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia remain unresolved. A recent round of indirect talks between Somali and Ethiopian officials in Ankara ended without a resolution. Mediated by Turkey, the talks involved no face-to-face meetings, and both sides remain firm in their positions. Despite the lack of progress, Somalia has expressed its willingness to participate in future negotiations.
Somalia’s Stance on Sovereignty
Somalia’s Foreign Ministry has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This stance is crucial as Somalia navigates its relationships with both Egypt and Ethiopia. As the region continues to grapple with complex geopolitical issues, the new defense pact between Somalia and Egypt marks a significant development in the Horn of Africa.