MOGADISHU, (HAN) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reaffirmed that Somalia’s growing relationship with Ethiopia will not hinder its longstanding strategic cooperation with Egypt.
Speaking in a wide-ranging interview with Al-Arabiya, President Mohamud underscored the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with both countries.
The president expressed support for ongoing negotiations surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), noting that Ethiopia’s Prime Minister has assured his readiness to engage with any concerned party on dam and water-related issues. “We welcome dialogue and cooperation over shared resources and regional stability,” he said.
Highlighting Somalia’s ties with Egypt, President Mohamud emphasized Egypt’s direct contributions to Somalia’s security sector. He noted that Egyptian equipment and support have strengthened Somali security forces and announced that Egyptian troops will participate in the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia.
“These relations are historic, dating back to the era of Queen Hatshepsut and continuing through centuries to the present day,” he added, reflecting on the deep-rooted diplomatic and cultural bonds between Cairo and Mogadishu.
During the interview, President Mohamud also discussed broader regional and international issues, including Somalia’s role in Africa, the situation in Palestine, and other global affairs, signaling Somalia’s active engagement in regional diplomacy.
