Egypt and Djibouti’s foreign ministers convened to strengthen bilateral ties, discussing potential links between their ports and cooperation in regional security, particularly in the Red Sea and Somalia. Both nations emphasized their security interdependence and committed to collaborative efforts for economic development and stability in the Horn of Africa.
On Sunday, Egyptian and Djiboutian foreign ministers engaged in political consultations aimed at fortifying bilateral relations, particularly considering a possible connection between Egyptian ports and Djibouti. This discussion followed a prior meeting between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, where both leaders reaffirmed their nations’ close ties.
During their discussions, Youssouf delivered a message from President Ismail Omar Guelleh, expressing a strong commitment to enhancing relations with Egypt. President Al-Sisi reciprocated by highlighting the importance of their partnership and Egypt’s intentions to further advance it. The meeting also focused on collaborating to achieve mutual goals that align with the aspirations of both nations.
The dialogue extended to the Horn of Africa, focusing on security and stability in Somalia. President Al-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity amidst ongoing challenges. Additionally, the two leaders acknowledged the need for collaborative efforts to ensure security in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and maintain uninterrupted navigation in the Red Sea.
Subsequently, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty joined Youssouf for their bilateral meeting, where they celebrated the countries’ rich historical ties and expressed a unified vision for enhanced cooperation. Minister Abdelatty emphasized growth in various sectors, including economic development, pledging Egypt’s assistance in infrastructure and technical projects in Djibouti.
Minister Abdelatty specifically noted discussions on linking Egyptian ports with Djibouti and the crucial importance of cooperation in logistics. He described the interconnectedness of the two nations in terms of maritime navigation, emphasizing Djibouti’s susceptibility to tensions in the Red Sea. “We have a shared goal of ensuring Red Sea security and freedom of navigation,” he remarked, highlighting plans for an Egyptian logistics zone in Djibouti to facilitate Egyptian goods and trade.
Minister Youssouf characterized the bilateral relationship as exceptional, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing consultation due to developments in both regions. He stated, “We believe that Egyptian and Djiboutian national security are closely linked.” Youssouf also recognized Egypt’s pivotal role within the African Union and its contributions to the continent’s cooperation efforts.
In their discussions, the ministers reviewed regional dynamics affecting the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, with a focus on maritime security. They addressed collaborative support for Somalia’s counterterrorism initiatives and stabilization efforts, referencing their contributions to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Key topics also included Sudan’s situation and the imperative for a resolution that safeguards state institutions.
Moreover, the ministers discussed enhancing the functionality of the African Union and expediting the implementation of Agenda 2063. They agreed on the need to reform the African Peace and Security Council and provide reciprocal support for candidacies in international forums, aiming to fortify their collaborative efforts at the continental level.
The consultation between the Egyptian and Djiboutian foreign ministers underscores the significance of strengthening ties between the two nations, particularly through economic cooperation and mutual support for regional stability. Their discussions reflect broader geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, focusing on joint efforts to address issues such as maritime security, counterterrorism, and the stability of Somalia amid ongoing conflicts. The emphasis on linking ports and developing logistics signifies a strategic initiative to enhance trade flows between Egypt and Djibouti, crucial for both economies as they navigate complex regional challenges.
The consultations between Egypt and Djibouti signify a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on strengthening economic ties and regional stability. Key discussions centered around maritime security in the Red Sea and the importance of cooperation for the stability of Somalia. Both nations aim to bolster their partnership through infrastructure and logistical collaborations, highlighting their interconnected security interests and aspirations for growth in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
