Egyptian Foreign Minister Discusses Local Challenges with U.S. and Somali Representatives
Over a bustling weekend, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, found himself deep in conversation with prominent figures like US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. These chats centered around the ever-shifting dynamics of regional happenings and the potential pathways to strengthen bilateral ties.
In a dialogue on January 4th, Abdelatty and Blinken honed in on the turmoil in Gaza and the messy quagmire that is the Syrian crisis. Abdelatty did not mince words, asserting the absolute need for an immediate halt to the violence in Gaza. He was adamant that global and regional entities must rally together to ensure that humanitarian aid flows unimpeded. Israel’s actions—particularly the bombardment of medical facilities and hospitals—drew condemnation from Abdelatty, who deemed these acts as flagrant breaches of international law and humanitarian norms.
When it came to Syria, the talks navigated the murky waters of political transformation. Abdelatty championed a process led by Syrians themselves, free from the meddling hands of external powers. His vision? A secure, stable Syria maintaining cohesion and control over its land. Blinken, in turn, echoed appreciation for Egypt’s endeavors promoting peace and stability in the region—a sentiment that adds credence to Egypt’s stabilizing role.
Fast forward to January 5th, Abdelatty was on another round of discussions, this time with Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. This dialogue was part of a continued conversation following Fiqi’s visit to Cairo on December 23, 2024. Intricately woven into this dialogue was the theme of deepened relations. Abdelatty reinforced Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty—an underscoring of their commitment to Somalia’s unity and self-determination, anchored in international law. Egypt’s additional support extended to Somalia’s pursuit of security and stability.
Not stopping at words, Abdelatty pledged robust support for Somalia’s Federal Government in its battle against terrorism and its mission to reestablish peace. This support, he pointed out, is not just a local boon but also fortifies stability across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor. Egypt’s commitment is clear—extending assistance to Somalia’s national institutions, aiming to uplift and meet the expectations of the Somali populace. Indeed, this move embodies Egypt’s vision of a more secure and unified region.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
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