Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki visited Egypt for talks with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The leaders discussed the security of navigation in the Red Sea, according to a statement from the Egyptian president's office following their meeting on October 30.
"The meeting emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation to ensure the security of the Red Sea and prevent any disruptions to navigation through this vital waterway. The President stressed the need to enhance coordination between Egypt and Eritrea, as well as with other Arab and African coastal states, to promote greater security and stability in the region," the statement read.
The sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Horn of Africa and related security issues.
Furthermore, al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across various fields, particularly in economic and investment spheres. Afwerki, in turn, welcomed the expansion of economic partnership with Egypt and enhanced bilateral coordination on issues of mutual interest.
Since 2023, Yemen's Houthi rebels have been attacking commercial vessels in the Red Sea, citing opposition to Israel. Due to these regular attacks, the regional situation remains unstable. The instability in the Red Sea has led to a significant drop in Egypt's revenue from the Suez Canal, which fell by 2.5 times in 2024 to $4 billion, compared to $10.3 billion in 2023. According to Egypt's Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, state profits decreased by at least another 23% in 2025.
Earlier in October, a Cameroon-flagged oil tanker, located approximately 60 nautical miles off the southern coast of Yemen, sent a distress signal following an onboard explosion. Local media reported that the vessel may have been attacked by the Houthis.
Maria Safonova
