Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, held a meeting with His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, on 20 January at his residence in Cairo, as part of his official visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Gamal Roshdy, the spokesman for the Secretary-General, said that during the meeting, Mr. Aboul Gheit emphasised the Arab stance on the "Memorandum of Understanding for Partnership and Cooperation" signed between Ethiopia and the Somaliland region. This stance was articulated in Resolution No. 8988 issued by the League Council at the ministerial level on 17 January. The resolution declared unequivocal solidarity with the Somali state, affirming its position that the said memorandum is null, void, and unacceptable. The League of Arab States rejects any legal, political, commercial, or military implications arising from it. Mr. Aboul Gheit reiterated the full support and solidarity of the League of Arab States with all diplomatic measures taken by Somalia to address this perilous development.
The spokesman highlighted that both parties engaged in a comprehensive discussion concerning the diplomatic measures and strategies implemented by Somalia on diverse Arab, African, and international platforms. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud conveyed his profound gratitude for the League of Arab States’ unwavering support during this crisis, particularly acknowledging the League's statement on 3 January 2024, the dedicated efforts of the Arab Group in New York to advocate for Somalia's position before the United Nations, and the recent decision of the League Council issued on 17 January 2024.
Roshdy added that the meeting delved into the envisioned Arab role in supporting Somalia across various dimensions. This support extends to safeguarding its unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Additionally, there is a commitment to bolstering Somalia's endeavours in counterterrorism and addressing its underlying causes. The dialogue also encompassed reinforcing national institutions and fortifying the economy, aligning with the legitimate aspirations of the Somali people.
