Egypt is preparing to play a more active role in regional peacekeeping efforts through its potential deployment of troops to Somalia under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM). This development was the focus of high-level discussions between Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, held in Cairo during the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum. The talks centered on operational coordination, strategic planning, and Egypt’s contribution to stabilizing Somalia, a country grappling with persistent threats from extremist groups and internal conflict.
The proposed deployment reflects Egypt’s broader commitment to African security and its alignment with the African Union’s vision for sustainable peace across the continent. By contributing troops to AUSSOM, Egypt would reinforce its position as a key player in regional stability and demonstrate solidarity with Somalia’s efforts to rebuild its institutions and protect its citizens. The mission itself is part of a larger AU framework designed to support fragile states through coordinated military and diplomatic engagement, with Egypt’s involvement expected to bring both experience and logistical strength to the operation.
Further discussions took place at the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, where Foreign Minister Abdelatty met with his Somali counterpart, Abdelsalam Abdi Ali. The two leaders reviewed final procedures for the deployment and emphasized the importance of securing reliable international funding to ensure the mission’s long-term success. Their dialogue also explored avenues for expanding bilateral cooperation beyond security, including trade, investment, healthcare, and development partnerships. These efforts signal a deepening relationship between Egypt and Somalia, rooted in mutual interests and shared goals for regional progress.
As plans for the troop deployment advance, Egypt and the African Union are expected to continue refining operational details and mobilizing the necessary resources. The initiative not only underscores Egypt’s growing role in African peacekeeping but also highlights the continent’s collective commitment to addressing instability through unified action. If successful, the mission could serve as a model for future collaborations and reinforce the AU’s capacity to respond effectively to complex security challenges.