Egypt and Somalia Forge Alliance Amid Nile Dam Tensions with Ethiopia

CAIRO, Egypt - The government of Somalia has inked a deal with Egypt meant to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries, just at the time the Horn of Africa region is facing uncertainty over cooperation and partnerships with neighboring countries.

On Sunday, Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Fiqi held a consultative meeting with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry in Cairo, Egypt where cooperation and close partnerships were immensely discussed.

In the meeting, the two officials focused on enhancing collaboration in economic, political, and security sectors for the mutual benefit of the citizens of the two states. Egypt and Somalia have traditionally worked together even from the Arab League of Nations.

Starting this July, the two agreed, that Egypt will commence direct flights to Somalia to boost trade and investment. The direct flights will expand Somalia’s market and global standing as a secure nation despite internal challenges affecting the country

Egyptian bank, Banque Misr also announced plans to open a branch in Somalia to enhance financial cooperation and provide better banking services, thereby contributing to the economic development of Somalia.

Early this year, Egypt was approached by Somalia for protection from Ethiopia, which has signed a controversial agreement with Somaliland that would give it access to 20 kilometers of the Red Sea in exchange for recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state.

The Egyptian administration vowed to protect Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty in the middle of threats from Addis Ababa. But it seems Somalia has agreed to enter into formal talks with Ethiopia over access to the Red Sea.

GAROWE ONLINE