Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry received a phone call on Sunday from his Benin counterpart, Bakari Agadi Ouchlgon, in a significant diplomatic development. The discussion revolved around the evolving crisis in Niger and its regional implications.
Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, official spokesperson and Director of Public Diplomacy at the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, elaborated on the critical points discussed during the call. The Beninese Foreign Minister expressed concern over the fluid security situation in West Africa, which has become a breeding ground for terrorist groups. Consequently, Benin is apprehensive about the ripple effects of the unstable conditions in Niger on the wider region. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is undertaking various initiatives aimed at crisis resolution, which the Beninese Minister outlined.
For his part, Minister Shoukry emphasized the importance of solving the crisis through diplomatic means. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that maintains the security, stability, and sovereignty of Niger without external interference. Further, he highlighted Egypt’s support for all mediation efforts that aim to resolve the crisis peacefully. Shoukry stressed the need for responsible conduct in dealing with the current crisis and its humanitarian consequences, including facilitating access to humanitarian aid to mitigate its effects on the Nigerien populace.
Additionally, both ministers touched upon the trajectory of bilateral relations between Egypt and Benin. They reaffirmed the need to maintain the positive momentum characterizing their relations and to continue consultations and coordination on various regional and international issues.
The call between the two ministers comes amid a tense backdrop in West Africa, characterized by political instability and security threats from terrorist outfits. The crisis in Niger is seen as a litmus test for regional diplomacy, and Egypt’s proactive stance reflects its broader objectives in the African geopolitical landscape.
The dialogue represents a crucial juncture in Egypt’s foreign policy, reinforcing the country’s role as a significant diplomatic player in the African continent. With regional stability hanging in the balance, the conversation between the Egyptian and Beninese foreign ministers may well serve as a stepping stone towards a diplomatic resolution to the Niger crisis.
