CAIRO – 11 January 2025: In a joint press conference with Somali and Eritrean counterparts, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said the three countries agreed "to work together to strengthen the unity and sovereignty of Somalia and provide support to the Somali government.”

In line with the outcomes of the Asmara Tripartite Summit held on October 10, 2024, between the Presidents of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia, Abdelatty invited Osman Saleh Mohamed, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Eritrea; and Ahmed Maalim Faqi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, to convene the first meeting of the Joint Tripartite Ministerial Committee. This committee was established in accordance with the statement issued by the Tripartite Summit.

The three ministers discussed the implementation of executive measures based on the directives of the three heads of state from the Asmara Summit. Their focus was on enhancing security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, as well as safeguarding the unity and sovereignty of the countries in the region. These efforts are being carried out within the framework of international law and the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations.

The three ministers welcomed the progress made in strengthening cooperation between their countries to achieve security in Somalia, including the ongoing collaboration between Egypt and Somalia in peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts. They also highlighted Egypt's participation in the African Union Mission for Support and Stabilization in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Additionally, the ministers discussed strategies to enhance the capabilities of Somali state institutions, enabling them to combat terrorism, extend state control across all territories, and strengthen the country’s ability to protect its land and sea borders.

The ministers further addressed regional developments, particularly the situation in Sudan and its wider regional implications. They also reviewed cooperation between the countries bordering the Red Sea, the security situation in Somalia, and the ongoing diplomatic coordination among the three nations.

Abdelatty expressed appreciation for the support extended by Eritrea and Somalia for Egypt’s candidate, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, for the position of Director-General of UNESCO.

Finally, it was agreed to strengthen coordination and prepare for the second round of the Tripartite Summit between Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia, with the date to be determined in the near future.