Al-Alamein, Egypt – In a major diplomatic development, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia held a high-level summit today with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in the coastal city of New Alamein. The meeting marks a significant step forward in strengthening the historic ties between the two nations amid growing regional challenges in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor.
President El-Sisi received President Hassan Sheikh and his delegation with full honors at the Al-Alamein Presidential Palace, reaffirming Egypt’s deep respect and longstanding solidarity with the Somali people. The warm reception highlighted Cairo’s commitment to elevating its relationship with Mogadishu to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Focus on Security and Strategic Partnership
The summit took place against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. Both leaders expressed deep concern over regional instability, maritime threats, and the growing influence of foreign actors along Africa’s eastern seaboard.
President El-Sisi and President Hassan Sheikh reaffirmed their countries’ shared commitment to tackling terrorism and promoting peace. A key outcome of the talks was the agreement to activate the Military
Cooperation Protocol signed in August 2024, aimed at enhancing Somalia’s security forces and rebuilding state institutions.
President El-Sisi also emphasized Egypt’s continued support for the African Union Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and called on the international community to ensure sustainable and predictable funding for its success.
Embassy Reopening and Expanded Civil Cooperation
In a symbolic and strategic gesture, President El-Sisi announced that Egypt will soon reopen its embassy in Mogadishu, signaling a new phase of diplomatic engagement. He also praised Somalia’s progress under President Hassan Sheikh’s leadership in advancing national unity and countering extremist threats.
President Hassan Sheikh expressed profound appreciation for Egypt’s enduring support across various sectors, including education, healthcare, diplomacy, and military training. He particularly commended Egyptian assistance in restoring critical healthcare services in Somalia and called for expanded cooperation in institutional development.
President Hassan Sheikh, in return, extended an official invitation to President El-Sisi to visit Somalia. “The Somali people are eager to welcome you warmly in Mogadishu,” he said, noting that such a visit would further cement the strategic relationship between the two countries.
