Egyptian, Somali presidents attend signing of military cooperation protocol

CAIRO – 14 August 2024: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and President of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud attended Wednesday the signing of a military cooperation protocol between the two countries during the latter's visit to Egypt.

President Sisi had received President Mahmoud in an official ceremony at Ittihadia Palace as they later held talks. President Sisi affirmed Egypt's position in support of the unity and sovereignty of Somalia over its lands, and rejection of any interference with its internal affairs.

The two presidents welcomed mutual steps taken by the two countries to deepen bilateral cooperation, including the launch of direct flights between Cairo and Mogadishu, and opening of a new headquarters of the Egyptian embassy in the Somali capital, Mogadishu.

The Somali president expressed his appreciation for Egypt's continuous support for his country over the past decades, stressing Somalia's keenness to further boost economic, security and political ties with Egypt in the coming period. He also expressed appreciation for the role of various Egyptian authorities in building the capacities of Somali cadres in various fields.

The meeting touched on various regional and international affairs of common interest. Both sides agreed to intensify consultation and coordination in the coming period to continue working to establish security and stability in the Horn of Africa.

Following the talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing ceremony of the military cooperation protocol between the two countries, and held a joint press conference.