Egypt, Djibouti emphasise Red Sea security, Somalia stability, discuss port link
Egyptian and Djiboutian foreign ministers held political consultations Sunday, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, including a potential link between Egyptian ports and Djibouti. The meeting followed a separate discussion earlier in the day between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Djiboutian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, during which they affirmed the close ties between their countries.
Youssouf conveyed a message from Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh to Al-Sisi, expressing his appreciation and commitment to strengthening relations with Egypt. Al-Sisi reciprocated these sentiments, emphasising the depth of the bilateral relationship and Egypt’s desire to enhance it further.
The Egyptian Presidency Spokesperson said their meeting explored ways to boost cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including expanding bilateral collaboration to achieve shared goals and meet the aspirations of both nations.
Discussions also covered the situation in the Horn of Africa, focusing on efforts to restore security and stability, particularly in Somalia. Al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s unity, stability, and territorial integrity. The situation in the Red Sea was also addressed, with both leaders agreeing on the importance of joint efforts to ensure security in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and maintain normal navigation in the Red Sea.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Youssouf then held their bilateral meeting. They affirmed the deep historical ties between their countries and a shared desire to enhance cooperation.
Abdelatty praised the growth of bilateral relations, particularly in economic and development areas. He emphasised Egypt’s commitment to supporting Djibouti through infrastructure projects, technical assistance, training, and sharing expertise in sectors such as health, education, energy, maritime transport, and logistics.
“We discussed linking Egyptian ports with Djibouti and cooperation in the logistics sector, given its significant importance to both countries,” Abdelatty said at a joint press conference. He highlighted the close connection between the two nations on maritime navigation, noting Djibouti’s vulnerability to Red Sea escalations.
“We have a shared goal of ensuring Red Sea security and freedom of navigation,” Abdelatty continued, mentioning plans for an Egyptian logistics zone within Djibouti to promote Egyptian products and boost trade.
Youssouf described the bilateral relationship as exceptional, saying developments in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East necessitate continuous consultation. “We believe that Egyptian and Djiboutian national security are closely linked, as we are situated at the southern gate of the Red Sea, and Egypt is at the northern gate,” he explained.
Youssouf acknowledged Egypt’s role in the African Union and its contributions to continental cooperation.
Discussions covered regional developments in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, including maritime security and protecting navigation routes. Both ministers addressed support for Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts and its stabilisation, referencing their countries’ contributions to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). They also discussed the situation in Sudan, emphasising the need for a settlement that preserves state institutions and territorial integrity.
The ministers addressed developing the African Union’s work, activating its agencies, and accelerating Agenda 2063 and related projects. They also discussed reforming the African Peace and Security Council and agreed to reciprocal support for candidacies in international forums.
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