CAIRO: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Sunday affirmed that Egypt would not tolerate any threat to Somalia or its security, as tensions rise in the Horn of Africa following Ethiopia’s consideration of recognizing Somaliland’s independence claim.
Speaking at a news conference alongside Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Cairo, El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s commitment to safeguarding Somalia’s stability. He expressed strong opposition to attempts to seize control of land through questionable means, stating, “Trying to ‘jump on a piece of land’ to try to control it is something that no-one will agree to.”
Ethiopia-Somaliland Red Sea Deal
The statement comes in response to a memorandum of understanding signed by Ethiopia on January 1, indicating its willingness to consider recognizing Somaliland’s independence in exchange for gaining access to the Red Sea. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991; however, it has yet to secure recognition from any country.
Ethiopia’s move has escalated regional tensions, prompting concerns from neighboring nations, including Egypt.
