Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly receives his Somali counterpart Hamza Abdi Barre in Cairo, 31 August, 2024. Photo: Egyptian Cabinet
During a meeting in Cairo, Madbouly affirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Somali people across all fields, highlighting that supporting Somalia is a top priority for Egypt.
He underscored the importance of bilateral relationships through several high-level visits and initiatives to foster economy, trade, and investment between Cairo and Mogadishu.
The Egyptian premier further highlighted the recent operationalization of a direct flight route between the two countries and the opening of the Egyptian embassy in Mogadishu, which reflects the strong Egyptian-Somali relationship.
During the meeting, Madbouly welcomed Barre's visit to Egypt, which aligns with the agreements made during President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's recent meeting with his Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Cairo.
For his part, the Somali PM conveyed profound appreciation for Egypt's support to Somalia during this critical time, noting that Somalia is currently facing challenges from forces attempting to divide its territories.
“The Somali political leadership and people thank the Egyptian state for its support and assistance," he said.
In addition, Barre highlighted the multifaceted nature of the cooperation between the two nations, pointing out the historical ties between Cairo and Mogadishu and affirming Egypt’s substantial role in supporting Somalia.
The Somali premier stressed that the partnership between both countries encompasses political, trade, and investment cooperation, alongside cultural and educational exchanges.
He also reflected on Somalia's progress over the past two years, noting improvements in security, economic stability, and social development.
On 14 August, El-Sisi and his Somali counterpart witnessed the signing of a military cooperation protocol between the two countries.
Since January, tensions have increased in the Horn of Africa after Somaliland, a breakaway entity from Somalia not recognized by Egypt, agreed to lease 20 kilometres of its coast for 50 years to landlocked Ethiopia, which wants to set up a naval base and a commercial port in that area on the Red Sea.
Egypt has repeatedly asserted its firm position supporting the unity and sovereignty of Somalia over its territories.
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