Egypt Strengthens Military Ties, Boosts Exports, and Expands Gas Exploration

★ EGYPT & NORTH AFRICA

1.Egypt and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Military Ties

The tenth Saudi-Egyptian Military Committee meeting took place in Cairo, focusing on deepening defense and military cooperation. Chaired by Saudi Chief of General Staff General Fayyad Al-Ruwaili and Egyptian Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, the discussions included senior officers from both nations’ armed forces, aiming to enhance strategic collaboration.

2.Egypt and Somalia Sign Military Protocol Amid Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions

Egypt and Somalia have ratified a military cooperation protocol to bolster their alliance in response to Ethiopia’s controversial port deal with Somaliland. In Cairo, Presidents Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud reiterated their commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty and regional stability. President Sisi highlighted Egypt’s stance against threats to Somali security and its opposition to Ethiopian activities in Somaliland, marking a strengthening of bilateral relations.

3.Egypt’s Exports to UAE Surge to $1.17 Billion

Egypt’s exports to the UAE reached $1.17 billion in the first five months of 2024, a significant increase from $600 million in the same period last year. Key exports included pearls and precious stones, valued at $651.9 million, compared to $117.7 million previously. Fuel exports rose to $65.4 million from $3 million, while electrical machinery and equipment exports totaled $108.9 million, slightly down from $114 million last year.

4.Egypt Announces Global Gas Exploration Tender for Mediterranean Regions

Egypt is launching a global tender for gas exploration in the Mediterranean and Nile Delta to address a production shortfall. Current output stands at 4.6 billion cubic feet daily, below the required 6.2 billion. To meet summer electricity demand, Egypt has imported 26 LNG shipments. The Petroleum Minister has called on foreign partners to expedite new well development to boost production.

5.Geneva Talks on Sudan Begin Without Military Representation

Negotiations on Sudan’s conflict commenced in Geneva without the Sudanese military’s involvement. International mediators focused on humanitarian aid and ceasefire efforts in line with the Jeddah Declaration. The US envoy emphasized adherence to international humanitarian law. While the Rapid Support Forces arrived for negotiations, the government delegation chose not to participate in the post-Jeddah consultations.

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August 13, 2024

Egypt and Eritrea Vow to Tackle Regional Security Challenges Together

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi met with Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh in Cairo on August 9, 2024, to discuss escalating tensions and security threats in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. The leaders emphasized the importance of continued coordination and consultation to enhance regional stability. President Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and addressing mutual challenges. The meeting follows rising tensions after Somaliland leased part of its coastline to Ethiopia, a move opposed by both Egypt and Somalia.

Egypt & Africa 2022-2024