According to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, Shoukry reiterated the importance of resuming the talks in the nearest time to reach a fair, balanced and legally binding agreement on the filing and operation of the Ethiopian dam that takes in consideration the interests of the three countries in accordance with the UN Security Council’s presidential statement issued in September 2021.

Earlier Tuesday, Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said in a statement that Cairo is interested in resuming talks to resolve technical and legal points of contention and reach a balanced deal. 

The Egyptian foreign minister highlighted the importance of dealing with security and stability in the Horn of Africa from a comprehensive perspective that ensures the settlement of all the issues it witnesses.

Satterfield and Shoukry discussed the latest developments in Sudan which tops the issues he is discussing in his current tour in the region that kicked off on 24 January with a visit to Kenya and will continue to 4 February according to US department of State.

Shoukry said Egypt is keen to provide all support to Sudan as it considers its security and stability as part of its own as well as the region’s, adding that Egypt was supporting the United Nations initiative for dialogue with the different Sudanese parties and powers to resolve the current crisis.

Concerning Somalia, Shoukry asserted Egypt’s interest in the latest situation in Somalia and its support for the efforts to achieve stability and security in the East African country.

He also hinted out that Cairo was hosting a special retreat on Post-2021 Arrangements in Somalia on Tuesday and Wednesday with participation from the Federal Government of Somalia, the African Union, the United Nations, and several international partners.

From his side, the veteran US diplomat expressed his appreciation that Egypt was organising that event.

According to the US Department of State, the US special envoy for the Horn of Africa will later visit the UAE, Turkey, and Israel.

His talks with officials from those governments and key stakeholders aim to promote the democratic civilian rule in Sudan and to support peace and prosperity in the Horn of Africa, the statement said.

This is his second tour in the region after Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Ethiopia.

David Starfield was appointed as the US special envoy for the Horn of Africa in early January replacing veteran US diplomat Jeffery Feltman stepped down from his position. This is considered his first visit to Cairo after assuming his position.