Egypt pledges support to Somalia, eyeing Horn of Africa influence
Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Roble held talks in Cairo with senior Egyptian officials at a time when Egypt is attempting to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa.
CAIRO — Egypt, as part of its effort to win more support from regional countries, hosted Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Roble this week. He arrived in Cairo on Aug. 16 for the first time since taking over in September 2020, at the invitation of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.
Roble met several Egyptian officials, including Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly on Aug.17, who told Roble the Egyptian government hopes to enhance economic and trade ties with Somalia.
Madbouli said he has directives from Sisi to offer all types of support to Somalia.
Roble also met Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, who expressed hope that Somalia can get over its political problems and hold successful parliamentary and presidential elections. The presidential election is set for Oct. 10, while parliamentary elections keep getting posponed.
