Disputed Somalia consents defense deal with Egypt
Date
7/24/2024 8:06:15 AM
(MENAFN) Somalia has recently finalized the approval of a defense agreement with Egypt aimed at enhancing its military capabilities amidst ongoing challenges with Al Shabaab insurgents. According to reports from local and regional media, the agreement, which was negotiated in January, was formally ratified during a special cabinet session held late last week.
While specific details of the pact have not been disclosed publicly, Mogadishu-based Xamar Online suggests that it includes provisions for joint military training and intelligence sharing. The overarching objective is to address shared security concerns and contribute to regional stability in East Africa.
The decision by the Somali government underscores its proactive approach to fortifying national security frameworks and expanding international partnerships. This move comes amidst heightened tensions with Ethiopia over a maritime dispute earlier this year, which exacerbated longstanding geopolitical frictions between the two nations.
Ethiopia's agreement with breakaway Somaliland to establish a marine force base and access the Red Sea has further strained relations. Mogadishu condemned the pact as an affront to its sovereignty, maintaining its stance that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia despite declaring independence in 1991.
In response to these developments, Egypt, which has its own disputes with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile, publicly backed Somalia. Egyptian President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi reiterated his country's support during a joint press conference in Cairo with Somali counterpart Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, affirming Egypt's commitment to safeguarding Mogadishu's security and territorial integrity against external threats.
The defense agreement marks a significant step in Somalia's efforts to bolster its defense capabilities and forge strategic alliances to counter regional challenges. It reflects a broader strategy by Mogadishu to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa and assert its role in maintaining stability amidst evolving security landscapes.
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