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Daily News Egypt
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt's Abdelatty, Benin FM discuss bilateral ties, African security
Egypt's Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, held political consultations with Benin's Foreign Minister, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, on Tuesday, to discuss ways to support bilateral relations and address challenges facing the African continent. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ambassador Tamim Khallaf stated that Minister Abdelatty welcomed the Beninese Foreign Minister's visit, which comes within the framework of the political consultation mechanism signed between the two countries in February 2000. Abdelatty expressed interest in enhancing economic cooperation and trade exchange between the two nations, and elevating cooperation in various fields including construction, infrastructure, tourism, culture, electricity and renewable energy, sanitation, pharmaceuticals, cotton and textiles, and agro-industrial and food processing. The Foreign Minister, in this context, emphasised the interest of Egyptian private sector companies in entering the Beninese market, highlighting the expertise of Egyptian companies in infrastructure, energy, and construction projects in various African countries. Minister Abdelatty also welcomed Benin's participation in training courses offered by the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development (EAPD), noting that Benin has benefited from 208 training courses with a total of 366 trainees. He also pointed to existing cooperation in combating terrorism and extremist ideology, whether through Al-Azhar Al-Sharif missions and the training of preachers and imams, or through training courses provided by the Agency. Minister Abdelatty stressed Egypt's keenness on achieving security and stability in the Sahel and West Africa region, affirming support for Benin in its counter-terrorism efforts, especially since the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region impacts all countries in the area, including Sudan, Libya, and the states bordering the Gulf of Guinea. The spokesperson added that the Foreign Minister briefed his Beninese counterpart on developments in the Middle East and Egypt's mediation efforts to stop the Israeli aggression on Gaza. He also addressed the parameters of Egypt's position on the crisis in Sudan, and developments in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, affirming Egypt's commitment to participating in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) as part of supporting stability in the Horn of Africa. At the end of the consultations, the two ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in diplomatic training, to train a number of Beninese diplomats at the Institute for Diplomatic Studies affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also signed an MoU for the mutual exemption of entry visas for holders of official passports, to facilitate and expedite mutual visits for further strengthening relations between the two countries.
See - Sada Elbalad
18-05-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
UN Rejects Repeated Displacement of Gaza Residents
Ahmed Emam The United Nations has firmly rejected the repeated displacement of civilians in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for an end to violence and the pursuit of a Yemeni-led negotiated political settlement. In a wide-ranging address delivered in Baghdad, the UN Secretary-General highlighted several critical issues across the region. He called for the immediate release of UN staff and others who have been arbitrarily detained, and urged a collective commitment to justice and human rights. Turning to Sudan, the Secretary-General underlined the importance of renewed and coordinated multilateral cooperation to help halt the horrific violence, famine, and mass displacement. He expressed deep gratitude to the League of Arab States and the African Union for their strong coordination during a high-level meeting held the previous day. "I commend the League of Arab States for its ongoing efforts to promote multilateral coordination," he said. In Somalia, the UN stressed the need for unity and inclusive dialogue. International support remains vital in combating Al-Shabaab and in strengthening peace and security. The Secretary-General also urged the Security Council to provide sustainable and predictable funding for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which is essential to long-term stability. Regarding Libya, the UN is working actively with both national and international actors to end clashes between armed groups, safeguard the independence of oversight institutions, remove obstacles to national elections, and chart a clear course toward sustainable peace and prosperity. "The League of Arab States continues to be a vital partner in these efforts," he added. Commending Iraq, the Secretary-General praised the country's progress since regaining sovereignty in 2004—particularly in strengthening institutions, resolving disputes through dialogue, delivering humanitarian assistance, and advancing sustainable development and human rights. He expressed hope for fair and peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues through dialogue. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) will continue supporting the country through the end of its mandate in December 2025, ensuring a smooth and orderly withdrawal. "We remain committed to supporting the Government and people of Iraq on the path to peace, democracy, and prosperity," he affirmed. In his closing remarks, the Secretary-General urged unity and solidarity across the region, stating that through cooperation, lasting peace and shared prosperity can be achieved. "This is the shared goal of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, and I look forward to deepening our partnership," he concluded. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War
CTV News
15-05-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Indigenous-owned manufacturer breaks new ground in Ontario shipbuilding partnership
An Indigenous-owned manufacturer based in Windsor and Chatham is entering Canada's marine vessel market through a first-of-its-kind partnership with Wheatley-based Hike Metal — a deal both companies say could reshape the country's defence supply chain. ATMIS, which specializes in high-precision metal fabrication and robotic automation, has joined forces with longtime shipbuilder Hike Metal to collaborate on building small- and medium-sized marine vessels. The boats are expected to serve agencies such as the Canadian Coast Guard and other government or provincial enforcement bodies. 'We're looking to get into the marine area with our expertise in welding and pretty much all metal work,' said ATMIS President Andy Valentine. 'We're pretty excited to move that forward and to get into the defence space.' Valentine called the partnership 'very significant,' adding that ATMIS hopes its involvement will inspire other Indigenous businesses to pursue roles in Canada's advanced manufacturing sectors. 'One of ATMIS' goals is to aid in the whole truth and reconciliation for Indigenous peoples,' he said. 'We'd like to set up manufacturing facilities — we've already got partners ready to go in the Thunder Bay area and across the country — to spread our knowledge and give the opportunities that we're developing to others.' The two companies plan to combine ATMIS' defence-grade components and engineering capabilities with Hike Metal's long-standing shipbuilding expertise. Founded in 1958, Hike Metal is one of Canada's premier aluminum vessel builders, with a client list that includes the Coast Guard, police departments, and the Maid of the Mist tour boats in Niagara Falls. Hike Metal President Steve Ingram said both companies had been searching for new partnerships long before trade tensions started growing between Canada and the United States. 'We didn't even realize that we actually had that partnership right here — they're in Chatham and Windsor and we're in Wheatley, right in the middle,' said Ingram. 'To me, we couldn't have got luckier with the whole situation.' Ingram said the partnership opens the door to untapped markets, including work with the Department of National Defence. 'We're considered like a pillar-two supplier — there are very few shipbuilders in Ontario,' he said. 'This is going to wake people up ... and that can only bring in new jobs, which is what we're all looking for,' said Ingram. Andrew Glover, operations manager at ATMIS, said the company already provides advanced components for sectors ranging from space exploration to nuclear reactors, and believes the new partnership will help establish Indigenous businesses as key contributors to Canada's defence capabilities. 'We pride ourselves on being an Indigenous-owned business that is one of the most state-of-the-art manufacturers in Canada,' said Glover. 'When working with other prime contractors, it's very important for our company to be utilized in a way that's meaningful — that we contribute valuable product, create jobs, and help our local communities.' Though both companies are manufacturers, Glover said their strengths are complementary — with ATMIS focusing on high-tolerance fabrication and Hike Metal bringing vessel assembly expertise. Ingram agreed, saying ATMIS brings 'a very proactive ability' and an R&D mindset that could expand both companies into new areas. 'We're experts in aluminum welding and building vessels,' said Ingram. 'Can we expand from building boats to something else? We only have the future to look forward to, to find out.' The partnership will be showcased at CANSEC, Canada's largest global defence and security trade show, later this month.
Business Insider
12-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
U.S. rejects appeal to fund peacekeeping operations in crisis-hit East African nation
The United States has rejected a United Nations proposal to help finance the African Union's new peacekeeping mission in Somalia. The U.S. has declined to support a UN proposal to finance the African Union's new peacekeeping mission in Somalia. The rejection impacts the transition from the African Union's current mission ATMIS to the restructured AUSSOM initiative. Persistent unrest due to Al-Shabaab insurgents complicates stability and peace efforts in Somalia. The Trump-led administration has rejected an African Union appeal to fund its new Somalia peace mission, citing operational concerns and poor burden-sharing. A senior AU delegation visited Washington recently in a final push to secure backing for AUSSOM, which is set to replace ATMIS (African Union Transition Mission in Somalia) in July. ATMIS is an AU-authorized peacekeeping mission that replaced the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and aims to support the Somali Security Forces in combating al-Shabaab and securing the country. The U.S. decision has dealt a major blow to international efforts aimed at stabilizing the country as it transitions from ATMIS to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM). Despite nearly two decades of military presence by the African Union in Somalia, the Islamist insurgent group Al-Shabaab remains deeply entrenched and increasingly emboldened. While initial AU deployments helped reclaim key areas from militant control, recent offensives by Al-Shabaab have reversed many of those gains. AU's financial burden ATMIS, the outgoing African Union mission, faces a severe financial crisis, with nearly $100 million in unpaid salaries and mounting debts, undermining peacekeeper morale and raising concerns about a potential security vacuum in Somalia. According to a report by the Security Council Report, the US has expressed consistent opposition to the use of the 2719 framework for Somalia. The framework was adopted in December 2023 and marks a significant development in the financing of African Union (AU)-led peace support operations (PSOs), allowing, for the first time, the use of UN-assessed contributions to fund such missions on a case-by-case basis ' The US has maintained that Somalia is not an appropriate context for the application of the 2719 framework and has opposed the hybrid implementation model, arguing that it does not reflect the spirit or intent of resolution 2719. The US has suggested exploring alternative financing options that extend beyond the traditional donor base.' the report noted To address this, the UN and AU have agreed to cut $124.9 million from the AUSSOM budget by reducing peacekeeper pay, removing insurance costs, and cutting back on flights and equipment. As a result, the revised AUSSOM budget is now $166.5 million, down from the projected $190.2 million. They also hope to fund mine-clearing work through donations instead of the main budget. The UN says these cuts were tough decisions but necessary to keep the mission going without asking member countries to pay more. Several Security Council members, including EU countries, have stressed the need for diversified funding and cost-sharing for Somalia's peace mission, while China has urged traditional donors to maintain strong financial support. In contrast, the US has consistently opposed using the 2719 framework for Somalia. On 2 May, US senators introduced the " AUSSOM Funding Restriction Act of 2025," aiming to block US contributions to AUSSOM under resolution 2719. The US argues that Somalia is unsuitable for the hybrid model and calls for exploring alternative funding options outside traditional donors The ongoing crisis in Somalia has led to widespread suffering, with millions facing food insecurity and displacement due to conflict between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab. Political instability and clan divisions have further weakened the government's authority.
Egypt Today
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Egypt Today
Egyptian FM Congratulates New Somali Counterpart, Affirms Strategic Partnership
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Atti held a phone call on Monday with Abdulsalam Abdi Ali CAIRO – 29 April 2025: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Atti held a phone call on Monday with Abdulsalam Abdi Ali, the newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia. Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Minister Abdel-Atti extended his congratulations to his Somali counterpart on his appointment, expressing his best wishes for success in his new role. The Egyptian Foreign Minister emphasized the depth of the historical relations and fraternal ties that bind Egypt and Somalia, which were elevated to the level of a strategic partnership during the visit of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Egypt in January 2025. He highlighted the importance of continuing to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various political, economic, and security fields, serving the interests of both nations and their people. Minister Abdel-Atti reiterated Egypt's full commitment to supporting Somalia's unity, territorial integrity, and national institutions, as well as its efforts to achieve security and stability in the country. He underscored the crucial role of Somalia's stability in maintaining peace and security in the Horn of Africa region. He also affirmed Egypt's unwavering support for Somalia in its fight against terrorism and extremism during this critical period, stressing Egypt's keenness to provide all forms of assistance to the Somali side in counterterrorism efforts. The two ministers exchanged views and assessments on ways to enhance coordination between their countries in supporting stability and development in the Horn of Africa. They emphasized the importance of continuing close consultations between Egypt and Somalia in regional and international forums to address common challenges facing the Horn of Africa region. For his part, the Somali Minister expressed his appreciation for Egypt's supportive stances towards Somalia at all levels, commending Egypt's participation in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), in response to the Somali Federal Government's request, and its consistent commitment to supporting his country's security and stability.
