President El-Sisi Reiterates Egypt’s Commitment to East African Security During Eritrean Leader’s Visit

President eritrean-leader-isaias-afwerki-in-official-ceremony/">Abdel Fattah El-Sisi welcomed Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki today in Cairo, marking a significant moment in the two nations’ diplomatic relations.

According to the official spokesperson for the presidency, the reception included a guard of honor, national anthems of both countries, and a commemorative photo session with the two leaders. This was followed by extensive discussions between delegations from both nations and a bilateral meeting, concluded with a luncheon hosted by President El-Sisi in honor of President Afwerki and his accompanying delegation.

Ambassador Mohamed Shenawy, the official spokesperson, noted that President El-Sisi expressed his warm welcome to President Afwerki during his visit to Egypt, highlighting the deep historical ties between the two countries. He emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to enhance these relations across various sectors to benefit both peoples, particularly through strengthening trade, economic, and investment cooperation between Egypt and Eritrea. The Egyptian leader reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering commitment to supporting Eritrea’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In response, President Afwerki expressed his appreciation for the visit and for meeting with President El-Sisi. He praised the progress in bilateral relations and acknowledged Egypt’s support for Eritrea’s developmental aspirations. He also expressed Eritrea’s desire to intensify cooperation with Egypt to advance their fraternal relations towards broader horizons that fulfill mutual interests and aspirations for prosperity.

The discussions also addressed regional and international developments, particularly focusing on the situation in the Horn of Africa. In this context, President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s steadfast position aimed at maintaining security and stability in the region as an extension of Egyptian national security. He underscored the importance of coordination between Egypt and Eritrea to ensure stability in this area. President Afwerki acknowledged Egypt’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and achieve comprehensive development within its countries, stressing the significance of bilateral coordination to uphold peace and stability in the region.

The two leaders also discussed recent developments in Sudan, where President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s strong support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, security, and stability. They emphasized the need to resolve current crises and support Sudan in restoring comprehensive stability.

Additionally, they reviewed ongoing cooperation between their countries aimed at ensuring security in the Red Sea and freedom of maritime navigation. President El-Sisi highlighted the necessity of enhancing coordination between both nations while considering the exclusive responsibility of coastal states for governance and maintaining security in this vital area. President Afwerki agreed with this perspective, leading them to agree on continuing their existing coordination and consultations to ensure regional peace and stability while supporting efforts for comprehensive development in the region.