(14 Aug 2024) CAIRO (Halqabsi News) — In a landmark move signalling closer ties and a shared commitment to regional stability, Somalia and Egypt have today formalized a significant defence and security cooperation agreement.
The agreement was signed during a high-level meeting in Cairo between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Egyptian President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi. The newly established pact aims to bolster Somalia’s defence and security capabilities, a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to stabilize the volatile Horn of Africa region, long plagued by terrorism, piracy and political instability.
The agreement includes plans for enhanced military cooperation, joint initiatives to combat terrorism, and support for the development of Somalia’s Armed Forces. It also reaffirms Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s unity and territorial sovereignty.
Both leaders hailed the agreement as a milestone in bilateral relations. They emphasized the importance of collaboration for regional peace and stability and highlighted the deepening ties between the two countries.
“This agreement is a testament to our shared commitment to peace and security,” President Mohamud said. “It will enable us to work together more effectively to address the challenges facing our region.”
President Al-Sisi echoed these sentiments, stating, “Egypt is committed to supporting Somalia’s efforts to build a strong and stable nation. This agreement is an important step in that direction.”
The agreement is also seen as a positive development for Somalia’s ongoing efforts to build a capable national army, ready to assume full responsibility for the nation’s security. This comes as Somalia prepares to replace its current African Union mission, ATMIS, with a new mission named AUSSOM by January 2025. The new mission, which is expected to last between three to five years, will involve the participation of troops from Egypt and Djibouti.
Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, reiterated his ministry’s commitment to this goal, stating, “We are determined to build a strong and professional army that can protect our people and contribute to regional stability.”
The African Union (AU) has already approved AUSSOM as a peacekeeping and police force, set to enhance stability and security in Somalia. The mission will build upon existing partnerships, with Djibouti playing a key role, having provided financial support and training to Somali police forces since the 2000s.
AUSSOM represents a strategic shift in Somalia’s approach to peacekeeping, with a focus on regional collaboration and continued support from key African nations. The signing of this landmark defence pact with Egypt marks a new chapter in Somalia-Egypt relations and is expected to have a positive impact on the wider region, particularly as Somalia transitions to a new era of security responsibility.
Halqabsi News
