Egyptian, Somali foreign ministers meet in Cairo

The foreign ministers of Egypt and Somalia met on Tuesday to discuss ways to enhance relations between the two countries and joint efforts to tackle regional and international challenges.

Sameh Shoukry welcomed Ali Mohamed Omar in Cairo during the Somali minister’s visit to Egypt.

The pair expressed their keenness to maintain close contact on regional and international issues of common interest, Ahmed Abu Zeid, spokesman for the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, said.

Shoukry reiterated Egypt’s backing for Somalia’s efforts to enhance peace and security in the Horn of Africa region, which he said “represents a basic pillar of regional and continental security.”

The minister also raised the issue of the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip, including Israel’s targeting of civilians and disrupting aid convoys. He also stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire before the month of Ramadan to provide protection for Palestinian civilians.

The officials discussed the conflict in Sudan and agreed it was necessary to take practical measures to reach a sustainable ceasefire to put an end to the suffering of the Sudanese people.

They also highlighted the need for joint Arab action in tackling crises and conflicts across the region, including the military operations in the Red Sea.

Omar thanked Egypt for its support in protecting Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.