Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry receives the Somali Acting Foreign Minister Ali Mohamed Omar in Cairo, 5 March 2024. Photo: Egyptian Foreign Ministry
Shoukry also affirmed to Omar Cairo's support for Somalia's efforts to enhance peace and security in the Horn of Africa region as a basic pillar of regional and continental security, according to a statement by Foreign Ministry's Spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid.
In January, Somaliland, a breakaway entity from Somalia which is not recognized by Egypt, announced leasing 20 kilometres of its coast for 50 years to Ethiopia, posing a serious challenge to Somalia's sovereignty and raising tensions in the Horn of Africa.
In response, Egypt asserted its firm position supporting the unity and sovereignty of Somalia over its territories.
Regional crises
The two top diplomats agreed on the need to take practical measures to reach a sustainable ceasefire in Sudan to end the crisis and loss of life in the neighbouring country.
Shoukry and Omar also agreed on the necessity of an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war before the month of Ramadan to protect Palestinian civilians, added Abu Zeid.
Moreover, Shoukry discussed with Omar the repercussions of ongoing military operations in the Red Sea, warning against the dangers of expanding the conflict in the region.
The meeting also touched on the existing bilateral cooperation programmes between Egypt and Somalia.
From his side, Omar expressed his country's appreciation for Cairo's stance in support of Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He stressed Mogadishu's keenness to continue coordination with Egypt on various issues related to the Horn of Africa region and the African continent, said Abu Zeid.
Omar also expressed his aspiration to continue working towards maintaining the security and stability of the maritime navigation in the Red Sea.
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