Egypt, Eritrea affirm Red Sea security remains exclusive responsibility of littoral states

CAIRO – 16 May 2026: Egypt and Eritrea affirmed that the security and governance of the Red Sea remain the exclusive responsibility of the littoral states.

During his meeting with Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh on Friday, Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty - currently visiting Asmara - stressed that Egypt rejects any attempts by non-littoral parties to impose security arrangements or assume roles in the region.

The two ministers exchanged views on developments in the Horn of Africa. Abdelatty presented Egypt’s perspective on the situations in Sudan and Somalia, reaffirming Egypt’s firm commitment to preserving the security and stability of the Horn of Africa, which Cairo considers a direct extension of Egyptian national security.

The Egyptian foreign minister also emphasized the importance of supporting national institutions and preserving the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the countries in the region.

The meeting further addressed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Egypt and Eritrea and coordinate positions on regional issues of mutual interest.

Abdelatty highlighted the deep historical ties between the two countries and expressed his appreciation for the existing coordination, shared vision, and common interests binding Egypt and Eritrea.

He reiterated Egypt’s full support for Eritrea in safeguarding its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, stressing Cairo’s commitment to building on the positive momentum in bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation across various sectors in a manner that serves the interests of both peoples.

The minister also emphasized Egypt’s commitment to strengthening economic and trade cooperation with Eritrea in ways that support development efforts in both countries.

He expressed hope for continued joint efforts to increase trade volume, encourage joint investments, and support the participation of the Egyptian private sector in the Eritrean market, particularly in priority sectors such as transportation, mining, pharmaceuticals, fisheries, and infrastructure.