Egypt has pledged to protect Somalia’s coastline from foreign intrusions related to Red Sea access, opposing outside involvement for regional stability. Both nations aim to enhance their partnership and address Ethiopia’s attempts for territorial access, while underscoring Somalia’s sovereignty and independence.
In a recent diplomatic meeting in Cairo, Egypt has expressed its firm commitment to safeguarding Somalia’s coastline against unauthorized access to the Red Sea. Egyptian Foreign Affairs Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that any presence from nations outside the coastal realms would not be tolerated, emphasizing the importance of regional stability. The discussions included a collaborative effort to address Ethiopia’s contentious aspirations for Red Sea access through Somalia’s territory. Furthermore, Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi highlighted the successful diplomatic talks held in Turkey, which have helped mitigate tensions in the region, avoiding potential escalation of violence.
The Cairo meeting underscored Somalia’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, with both nations prioritizing the establishment of a strategic partnership. There are ongoing technical deliberations to explore the optimal way for Ethiopia to gain legal access to the Red Sea, potentially allowing Somalia to commercialize this access. The meeting culminated in a joint statement reinforcing the ties between the two nations, exemplified by a recent defense pact signed to enhance Somalia’s territorial protection.
The geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa have become increasingly complex, particularly regarding access to the Red Sea. Ethiopia has been seeking a pathway to the sea through Somaliland, a region with unrecognized sovereignty, which has escalated tensions with Somalia. Recent diplomatic efforts involving Turkey have aimed to ease these tensions, with Somalia emphasizing the need to maintain its territorial rights. In this context, Egypt has positioned itself as a protector of Somali territory, asserting its opposition to external encroachments.
In summary, the meeting between the Egyptian and Somali foreign ministers has highlighted significant commitments to protect Somali sovereignty and coastal integrity while addressing Ethiopia’s ambitions for Red Sea access. Egypt’s resolute stance underscores its broader strategic interests within the region. As diplomatic discussions continue, the prospect of enhancing cooperative ties between Somalia and Egypt seems promising, with an emphasis on mutual respect and sovereignty.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
