Cairo(Mogadishu24)-Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre paid a secret visit to Cairo on Saturday, where he held discussions with his Egyptian counterpart, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

The meeting, confirmed by the office of the Egyptian Prime Minister, focused on strengthening economic, trade, and investment ties between the two nations.

Prime Minister Madbouly welcomed Barre and his delegation, emphasizing the deep historical and strategic relations between Egypt and Somalia. “Egypt is committed to supporting Somalia’s unity and development,” Madbouly stated, highlighting the potential for increased cooperation in various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and education.

Barre expressed gratitude for Egypt’s longstanding support, particularly during Somalia’s current challenges, and reiterated Somalia’s desire to enhance bilateral relations. He also highlighted Somalia’s recent economic and security improvements, attributing part of this progress to Egyptian assistance.

The visit comes as tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have escalated following the arrival of Egyptian military planes in Mogadishu, which has further strained relations between the two Horn of Africa nations. Neither side commented directly on the military aspect during the talks, but the timing of the visit suggests strategic considerations amid the growing regional tensions.