Egypt signs strategic partnerships with Kenya

CAIRO - Egypt has continued to expand its friendship within East Africa, a move manifested in the signing of a defense deal with Somalia and the latest deep engagement with Kenya, another strategic ally within the Horn of Africa.

Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the Egyptian president, hosted his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto, who is on a state visit in the Northern African country, which plays a significant role in social-economic and political frontlines within the Middle East and Africa.

During the talks in Cairo, the two leaders discussed the elevation of their relationship by expanding trade, investment, and security partnerships. Several strategic partnership deals were signed in the process, Ruto confirmed on his X account.

"Kenya and Egypt have signed the Joint Declaration for a Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership. By appending my and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's signatures, we have elevated our relationship and strengthened our ties to boost our engagements in various fields," he said.

"As a result, our two governments have also signed 12 agreements that expand our cooperation into various sectors. These agreements will strengthen trade, investment, education and research, and technological exchanges, among others, unlocking immense opportunities for our two nations."

In Somalia, Egypt is expected to donate several soldiers who will take part in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Kenya is a key contributor of troops in Somalia and is credited for the stability of Jubaland state.

Egypt is at loggerheads with Ethiopia over the impact of the Grand Renaissance Dam along the Blue Nile on its farming and has since countered Addis Ababa by extending friendship with Somalia and Kenya — two strategic countries within East Africa.

Kenya has traditionally participated in peacekeeping missions with a huge presence in Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan. The country, Ruto is directly involved in mediating the DR Congo conflict, which has led to the mass displacement of people in Goma.

GAROWE ONLINE