In recent days, Cairo has elevated its bilateral relations with both Somalia and Kenya to a strategic partnership level, recognizing the geopolitical importance of these two countries and their historical ties with Egypt. As a result, cooperation with these nations is set to expand, covering all areas, with a particular focus on security and military collaboration.

In a related development, Egypt welcomed the foreign ministers of Sudan and Djibouti this week to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations and mutual cooperation. A number of regional issues were also addressed, most notably the situation in Somalia, Sudan, and the security of the Red Sea. Sudanese Foreign Minister’s visit to Cairo marks the third such trip in less than two months, underscoring the intensification of consultations and coordination between the two countries. This visit followed important statements made by Egypt’s Foreign Minister in January, in which he affirmed Egypt’s support for the Sudanese military in order to preserve Sudan’s unity and sovereignty. This stance aligns with Egypt’s consistent approach since the onset of the Sudanese crisis.

Recent talks between the two sides resulted in a consensus to maintain close coordination, especially regarding safeguarding the water security of both nations, a critical issue that demands utmost attention. Furthermore, discussions between Egypt, Sudan, and Djibouti focused on Sudan’s full membership reinstatement in the African Union. This move is supported by Egypt, especially with Djibouti’s Foreign Minister’s candidacy for the position of African Union Chairperson.

Egypt’s Military Presence in Somalia

As part of its commitment to supporting Somalia, Egypt will participate in the African Union’s new mission, AUSSOM, by deploying military personnel. Egypt will also send troops under bilateral defense cooperation agreements. Additionally, Cairo will contribute to the training, rehabilitation, rearming of the Somali National Army, and support efforts in combating terrorism and maintaining the territorial integrity of Somalia.

Security and Defense Cooperation with Kenya

In Kenya, joint cooperation will see enhanced collaboration in defense, security, and counterterrorism, along with capacity-building and training programs. This is in line with the strategic partnership agreement, which prioritizes security cooperation as the cornerstone of this partnership.

Logistics Zone and Capacity Building in Djibouti

On the front of relations with Djibouti, Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdel-Aty announced new areas of collaboration, including defense and security training and capacity-building, as well as strengthening maritime transport and logistics cooperation. This includes the establishment of an Egyptian logistics zone in Djibouti, spanning one million square meters, as well as connecting Djiboutian ports with Egyptian ports, alongside boosting Egyptian investments in Djibouti across various sectors.

Egypt-Eritrea-Somalia Summit in Asmara

In October of last year, a trilateral summit was held in Asmara, Eritrea, bringing together the leaders of Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt. The summit focused on enhancing cooperation and coordination to strengthen Somalia’s institutions in confronting internal and external challenges. The summit also addressed empowering the Somali National Army to fight terrorism and protect Somalia’s land and sea borders. Furthermore, the summit discussed the situation in Sudan and its regional implications, as well as security cooperation between Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb littoral states, emphasizing their strategic importance as vital maritime routes. A trilateral committee was established to further deepen relations and cooperation in strategic areas among the three countries.

New Financial Mechanism for Nile Basin Infrastructure and Water Projects

In November, Egypt’s Cabinet approved the launch of a new financial mechanism to fund infrastructure, basic, and water-related projects in Nile Basin countries. This initiative will be funded through three main sources: the state budget, private-sector partnerships, and contributions from African countries, regional organizations, and international partners. The Egyptian government is initially contributing $100 million to this new funding mechanism and will support the construction of the “Mabanka” hydropower dam in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, Egypt will fund other projects in Uganda.

This strategic push by Egypt across multiple fronts highlights its growing influence in the Horn of Africa and its commitment to regional stability and development.