Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi welcomed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Cairo on Sunday, February 8, 2026, for high-level talks aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations and safeguarding regional stability.
Speaking at a press conference at the Presidential Palace, el-Sissi reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that any attempt to undermine it would destabilize the Horn of Africa.
“On the occasion of Your Excellency’s visit, I would like to reaffirm Egypt’s unwavering support for the unity and territorial integrity of our brotherly nation of Somalia, and our categorical rejection of any measures that undermine this unity, including the recognition of the independence of any part of its territory,” el-Sissi said.
“This would constitute a flagrant violation of the UN Charter and the rules of international law, and a dangerous precedent that threatens the stability of the entire Horn of Africa.”
Shared Priorities
President Mohamud echoed el-Sissi’s remarks, stressing that regional stability is a shared priority for both African and Arab states.
“The Red Sea and the Arabian Sea, in the Gulf of Aden, is a territory of the Arab world. All the neighboring countries of this very important strategic and geographic relevance of this region, all the neighbors are Arab countries,” Mohamud said.
Security and Cooperation
The two leaders also discussed Egypt’s anticipated participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia, announced in 2024, as well as joint efforts to combat terrorism. Both sides emphasized the importance of cooperation in addressing security challenges that threaten the wider region.
Conclusion
The Cairo talks underscore Egypt’s growing role in supporting Somalia’s stability and highlight the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa. As both nations deepen ties, their partnership is expected to play a critical role in regional peace, security, and development.
