Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi discussed with French President Emmanuel Macron Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia, the recent Ethiopia-Somalia agreement mediated by Turkey, and the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza. The leaders expressed the necessity of regional stability and enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic ventures.
On December 28, 2024, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt held a phone conversation with France’s President Emmanuel Macron, wherein he reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to supporting Somalia in attaining security and stability. This includes participating in the African Union peacekeeping mission at Somalia’s request. Sisi expressed optimism regarding the recent Turkey-mediated agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia and emphasized its potential to bolster security in the Horn of Africa. He highlighted the strong link between regional security and Egypt’s national security.
During the dialogue, Sisi and Macron discussed broader regional issues, including the conflict in Gaza. They underscored the need for an urgent ceasefire and humanitarian aid, reiterating France’s support for Egypt’s efforts to stabilize the situation. Furthermore, the leaders touched upon the political landscape in Syria and Lebanon, advocating for sovereignty and domestic political processes in both nations. The call ended with a mutual commitment to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in economic cooperation.
Earlier in December, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the successful mediation of talks between Somalia and Ethiopia that aimed to resolve long-standing tensions over territorial disputes, particularly regarding Somaliland. The deal had met with resistance from Somalia, which sees it as a threat to its sovereignty, while Egypt has maintained a position of support for Somali territorial integrity amidst ongoing regional tensions.
The context of President Sisi’s conversation with President Macron is rooted in the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East. The recent Turkey-mediated agreement aims to ease tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, which have heightened over Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland. Egypt’s focus on supporting Somalia is driven by its strategic interest in regional stability, which is seen as directly linked to its own national security. Additionally, the leaders’ discussion extended to pressing regional crises in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, reflecting Egypt’s active engagement in broader Middle Eastern issues.
In conclusion, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s call with President Emmanuel Macron highlights Egypt’s proactive role in addressing security challenges in the Horn of Africa and its commitment to regional stability. The Turkey-mediated Ethiopia-Somalia agreement represents a significant step towards resolving longstanding conflicts. Both leaders also underlined the urgent need for actions concerning the Gaza conflict, Syria, and Lebanon, while reinforcing the importance of enhancing bilateral relations between Egypt and France for mutual benefit.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
