President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Thursday during the Somali head of state’s official visit to the country, according to an Ittihadiya statement. The two presidents inked an agreement to raise bilateral relations to a strategic partnership that covers “political, military, cultural, and economic axes.” A meeting between the two will be held every year to follow upon efforts to strengthen bilateral nations between the countries.

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The two nations’ foreign ministers who inked several MoUs, including for diplomatic training and visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic passports

The two presidents discussed security and military cooperation, reaffirming their commitments to a protocol signed in August 2024 aimed at strengthening Somalia’s security capabilities and combating terrorism. Egypt’s role in the new African Union mission in Somalia was also highlighted as part of broader efforts to support the Somali state and its institutions.

Economic cooperation expands with new initiatives: Economic ties were also a key focus, with discussions on the recently established EgyptAir line between Cairo and Mogadishu. The leaders explored potential areas for further collaboration, including health, judicial cooperation, and capacity building, aiming to sustain and grow momentum in bilateral relations.