Egypt’s Sisi heads to UAE after talks with Somali leader in Cairo

CAIRO — Egypt’s presidency said President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is travelling to the United Arab Emirates for what it described as a fraternal visit, during which he will meet UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss developments in the Horn of Africa.

The visit comes shortly after Sisi held talks in Cairo with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, amid shifting regional dynamics.

Somalia has recently suspended security, defence and port-related agreements it had with the UAE, a move that has drawn regional attention as countries reassess alliances and interests in the strategically important Horn of Africa.

Egypt and the UAE are expected to discuss regional security, political developments and efforts aimed at stability in the Horn, the presidency said.

Somalia and Egypt signed a historic defense pact in August 2024 to bolster security cooperation, aimed at enhancing Somalia's defense capabilities against terrorism and strengthening regional stability.

The agreement includes military support from Egypt, with shipments of arms and personnel already deployed, and positions Egypt to participate in the new African Union mission.

GAROWE ONLINE