Egypt expresses solidarity with Somalia against attempts to breach its sovereignty

CAIRO – 18 January 2024: Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shokry met Thursday with Ali Mohamed Omar, charge d'affaires of the Somalian foreign minister, in the Ugandan capital, Kampala, hosting the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Minister Shokry expressed Egypt's solidarity with Somalia against attempts to breach its sovereignty, security and stability. He also stressed Egypt's readiness to assist Somalia with human capacity-building, development plans and supporting its stability.

In turn, the Somalian official welcomed the statement released by the Arab League's extraordinary session affirming solidarity with his country. He equally lauded the stances of many African states that back Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Further, the two sides agreed on continuous consultation and coordination in the coming period.

In his speech at the Arab League's extraordinary session, Minister Shokry pointed out Wednesday that certain parties aim for slowing down the journey of success the Somalian political leadership had embarked on by implicating the country in security and economic challenges. 

The minister shed light on the previous Egyptian warnings about Ethiopia's unilateral policies, which are violations of international law and the principle of good neighboring. He noted that Ethiopia's recent signing of an agreement with the unrecognized state of Somaliland to have access to the Red Sea was a proof of the Egyptian viewpoint given that such practices increase tensions in the region. 

Minister Shokry stipulated Egypt's full support to Somalia, calling on all Arab and non-Arab states to express their respect to Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in alignment with the UN charter.