El-Sisi Pledges Continued Support to Somalia After Attack on President Mohamud

Mogadishu (AX) – In a show of solidarity that underscores the intricate web of international alliances, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Somalia’s government and national army. This reaffirmation transpired during an insightful phone conversation with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on a breezy Tuesday evening. It’s moments like these that remind us of the palpable strength that can arise from unity. El-Sisi has always been a man of thoughtful words and strong convictions, and Tuesday was no different.

The conversation began on a personal note. President El-Sisi expressed genuine concern for President Mohamud’s well-being after the recent, harrowing assassination attempt by Al-Shabaab. This extremist group, with its dark penchant for chaos, is known for laying siege to peace in perilous places. This time, their brazen attack, which tragically cut short the lives of eight, including the devoted journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabashe, was yet another reminder of the fragility we all navigate daily.

“Though the threats loom large, a friend’s support can become a nation’s pillar,” shared a close confidant of President Mohamud, reflecting on the conversation’s impact.

President El-Sisi didn’t mince words on reinforcing the bonds between the two countries. His commitment to expanding cooperation spanned realms from counterterrorism initiatives to military training and broader intellectual platforms. It’s this broadened horizon, fueled by collaboration, that he believes can steer our turbulent world towards sustained harmony. Social development takes center stage in this vision. After all, isn’t true progress anchored in the upliftment of communities?

With a heart full of gratitude, President Mohamud reciprocated the warmth. He reminisced about the enduring support that Egypt has extended over the years. “Egypt has always been here, through thick and thin,” he remarked warmly, acknowledging the historical depth of this alliance. In pledging to deepen bilateral ties, he echoes a vision for shared prosperity—not just for today, but for the generations to come. Observing history through deeds, can nations rise above grievances for collective good?

Interestingly, this dialogue takes place against an evolving backdrop. Just as the sun sets only to rise again, Egypt is gearing up to make a significant contribution to the African Union Stabilization and Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This new initiative, launching with support from the UN Security Council later in 2024, signifies hope and shared responsibility. AUSSOM will lend much-needed support as it transitions from its predecessor, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). It holds the potential to be a renewed chapter in promoting security and counterterrorism strategies in the heart of Somalia. How often do we witness such renewal in the face of adversity?

In the grand tapestry of diplomacy, countries such as Egypt and Somalia are not merely threads but the weavers themselves. Their strategic dialogues and alliances weave patterns of friendship and cooperation. And as the skeins of time unravel, who holds the pen to write the future narrative?

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring.