Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said on Saturday that he is closely following the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, mediated by Turkey. He hopes the agreement will help promote security and stability in the Horn of Africa, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency.
The comments were made during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron. President al-Sisi expressed his attention to the agreement and hoped it would strengthen security in the region, while also respecting international law.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of improving cooperation in various fields, particularly economic and investment. They also discussed encouraging more French companies to invest in Egyptian development projects.
The conversation also covered regional developments. President al-Sisi emphasised the close link between security in the Horn of Africa and Egypt’s national security.
He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia, both through direct cooperation and by participating in the African Union peacekeeping mission at Somalia’s request.
Ethiopia and Somalia have had tensions since Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland in January, allowing use of the Berbera port. Turkey has worked to mediate and ease tensions between the two nations.
The Ankara Declaration, signed on December 12, marks a significant shift in their relations. The declaration highlights both nations’ commitment to respecting each other’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
