Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi recently announced that his country will protect Somalia against any threats, in indirect response to the recent agreement between Ethiopia and the autonomous region of Somaliland to access the port.
During a meeting in Cairo with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, El-Sissi expressed his disagreement with the agreement, emphasizing Egypt’s willingness to support Somalia’s sovereignty. He clearly stated that no one should threaten Somalia and that Egypt would protect its Somali brothers if necessary.
Somaliland, a region strategically located near the Gulf of Aden, separated from Somalia in 1991 during the civil war. Despite the lack of international recognition, Somaliland has managed to maintain autonomous government.
The Somali President, who also met Arab League leader Ahmed Aboul Gheit, said his country would not allow any takeover of the Red Sea without his consent.
“Somalia has a major geopolitical interest in the Red Sea and will not allow any state to seize this territory without the consent of the sovereign Somali state,” he said.
These developments highlight regional geopolitical issues in the Horn of Africa. The agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland could have an impact on Somalia, which seeks to strengthen its position in the region.
Egypt, as a major player in the region, plays a key role in supporting Somalia’s stability and protecting its interests. This statement of support from the Egyptian President strengthens cooperation between the two countries and shows the importance of regional stability in the fight against terrorism and maintaining maritime security.
The situation in Somalia remains complex, with many challenges ahead, including combating terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab and resolving internal political disputes. However, with the support of countries like Egypt, Somalia can hope to overcome these challenges and continue its development.
In conclusion, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s announcement to support and protect Somalia against any threats is an important step to strengthen stability in the region. This demonstrates the importance of regional cooperation and the defense of common interests. The situation in Somalia remains complex, but with the support of countries like Egypt, there is hope for a better future.