Mekelle፡ 13 August 2024 (Tigray Herald)
Somalia Denies Presence of Egyptian Troops
Somali Minister Remembers Egyptian Support During 1977 Conflict Against Ethiopia
Somali Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, has denied the presence of Egyptian troops on Somali soil, but expressed hope for future collaboration. He noted that Somalia is receiving Egyptian military supplies, including ammunition and weapons, which are used in the fight against terrorist organizations.
Omar explained that Somalia is in the process of rebuilding its armed forces and has signed several military agreements with various countries, including Egypt. He highlighted the need for arms and training, and welcomed support from these countries.
He added that currently, there are troops from various countries under the African Union in Somalia, but their presence will end by the end of this year. Negotiations are underway for new African Union troops to start from the beginning of next year. Somalia is in discussions with the African Union, and Somalia retains the authority in this regard.
Omar reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to defending Somalia’s sovereignty against any external threats, recalling Egypt’s assistance in 1977 during the conflict with Ethiopian forces. He indicated that if the situation escalates, Somalia might seek further support from the Egyptian military.
He accused Ethiopia of violating international law and the African Union Charter by recognizing the independence of Somaliland. Omar warned that such recognition would be considered a declaration of war against Somalia, and Somalia would take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty and territory.
He affirmed that Somalia possesses the military capability to protect its sovereignty across its entire territory and emphasized that the country would take necessary actions to defend its land and sovereignty if Ethiopia attempts to enter Somali territory.
But there are viral videos showing landing Egypt Military in Mogadishu international Airport and deployed to the border of Ethiopia. Some media outlet reported that till more than Ten thousands Egyptian soldiers are deployed to Somalia to remedies the Ethiopian movement toward Somalia.
