Cairo: The Egyptian delegation was led by Ambassador Ihab Awad, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for African Affairs, while the British side was represented by Harriet Mathews, Director General for Africa at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. These consultations focused on key topics impacting the African continent, including the current crisis in Sudan, regional challenges in the Horn of Africa and Sahel, as well as matters related to the African Union (AU).
According to State Information Service Egypt, the discussions were framed by Egypt’s prominent role in African affairs and the United Kingdom’s longstanding strategic interest in strengthening relations with African nations. The consultations underscored both countries’ commitment to addressing the continent’s most pressing issues, with an emphasis on stability, peacebuilding, and development.
A primary focus of the consultations was the situation in Sudan. Both Egypt and the UK reiterated their shared belief in the urgent need t
o bring an end to the ongoing conflict, which has led to widespread displacement and a dire humanitarian crisis. Both sides emphasized the importance of building a civilian consensus as a cornerstone for a lasting political settlement in Sudan. Additionally, both governments underscored the critical need for unhindered access to humanitarian aid for the affected populations and committed to supporting efforts to resolve the crisis.
The consultations also covered the situation in Somalia, with both Egypt and the UK reaffirming their support for the Federal Government of Somalia in its battle against terrorism. The two countries reiterated their commitment to Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They discussed the ongoing efforts to finalize the arrangements for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), following the African Union Peace and Security Council’s Communique 1225, issued on August 1, 2024. Both parties highlighted the importance of adequate financi
ng for AUSSOM and agreed that the African Union and Somalia should continue their efforts to secure funding for the mission’s operations.
The UK delegation expressed appreciation for Egypt’s leadership in facilitating the issuance of the joint communique PSC/PR/COMM.1236 (2024), which affirmed the AU’s financial contribution to AUSSOM from its Peace Fund. This reflects the growing cooperation between the two countries in advancing peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
The Sahel region also featured prominently in the discussions. Both Egypt and the UK agreed on the critical importance of enhancing regional stability to foster economic development for the people of the Sahel. They expressed concern over the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups, armed militias, and criminal networks operating in the region. The two delegations reviewed the situation in the Lake Chad Basin and exchanged assessments of their respective efforts to support the countries in the region in their fight against terrorism a
nd extremism.
Both nations recognized that addressing security challenges in the Sahel is vital for regional peace, economic progress, and the well-being of its citizens. Egypt and the UK pledged to continue supporting initiatives aimed at combating these security threats.
In addition to regional issues, the consultations highlighted the importance of advancing the goals of the African Union (AU) and its flagship Agenda 2063. Both Egypt and the UK emphasized the need to accelerate efforts in post-conflict reconstruction and development across the continent. The two sides recognized the significance of peacebuilding and sustaining peace initiatives, with Egypt being noted for its leadership in this area within the African Union framework.
Moreover, the consultations underscored the importance of supporting AUDA-NEPAD, the African Union’s development agency, in its ongoing efforts to implement continental development programs. Both countries expressed their appreciation for Egypt’s role as the Chair of the A
UDA-NEPAD Orientation Committee of Heads of State and Government.
The consultations concluded with an agreement to maintain periodic dialogue on African matters. The UK delegation expressed interest in hosting the next round of talks in London, with a date to be determined through diplomatic channels. This marks a continued commitment from both nations to work together on African affairs, reinforcing their shared goals of peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.