Egypt, Somalia leaders: Red Sea, Gulf of Aden security exclusive responsibility of littoral states

CAIRO – 8 February 2026: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday stressed the responsibility of littoral states in securing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden during a meeting in Cairo.

In a press conference following the talks, El-Sisi said they also highlighted the special role of Egypt and Somalia in this context, given their strategic positions at the southern and northern entrances to the Red Sea.

“We stressed that responsibility for securing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden rests exclusively with the littoral states,” El-Sisi stated.

The two leaders’ discussions covered regional developments, challenges facing the Horn of Africa, as well as the bilateral relations between Egypt and Somalia.

El-Sisi stressed the importance of activating the Strategic Partnership Declaration signed in January 2025.

The discussion also explored opportunities for cooperation in trade, development, education, and capacity building, as well as Egypt's preparedness to provide support through the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development.

The two sides also explored security and military cooperation, particularly in the fight against terrorism, leveraging Egypt's expertise and capabilities.

El-Sisi also highlighted Egypt’s anticipated participation in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), confirming to his Somali counterpart that Egypt is proceeding with the deployment of its forces as part of the mission.

He underscored Egypt’s dedication to the continent and the Egyptian efforts to promote peace and stability across Somalia.