Tanzania and Egypt have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence and security cooperation, highlighting the importance of military collaboration, diplomatic engagement and regional partnerships in promoting peace, stability and sustainable development across Africa and the Middle East.
The commitment was underscored during the commemoration of the 53rd anniversary of Egypt’s October Victory, where Major General Ahmed Salim represented Tanzania’s Minister for Defence and National Service, Honourable Rhimo Nyansaho.
The event also featured an address by Egypt’s Defence Attaché to Tanzania, Brigadier General Mokhtar Mady Mohammad, who reflected on the historical significance of the October Victory and the enduring importance of military cooperation, national sovereignty and international partnerships in addressing contemporary security challenges.
The two addresses highlighted the longstanding friendship between Tanzania and Egypt, while emphasising opportunities to expand cooperation in defence, security, trade, investment, energy and infrastructure.
Tanzania Reaffirms Commitment to Strategic Partnership
Delivering Tanzania’s message, Major General Salim highlighted the historical foundations of relations between the two countries, describing their partnership as one rooted in mutual respect, shared interests and a common commitment to African unity and development.
He noted that Tanzania-Egypt relations have continued to develop through diplomatic engagement and cooperation in strategic sectors, particularly under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt.
The official visit of President El-Sisi to Tanzania on 18 July 2026 was highlighted as an important milestone in bilateral relations, reaffirming both governments’ commitment to deepening cooperation in trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, defence and security.
Major General Salim also pointed to the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project as a significant symbol of Tanzania-Egypt cooperation, demonstrating how the two countries can combine expertise and resources to advance development and improve the welfare of their people.
The project stands as an example of the potential of international partnerships to deliver tangible development outcomes while strengthening diplomatic and economic relations.
Defence Cooperation Gains Momentum
Defence and security cooperation featured prominently in Major General Salim’s address, which highlighted progress in relations between the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) and the Egyptian Armed Forces.
The signing of a military cooperation agreement in August 2025 was identified as an important foundation for expanding collaboration, facilitating professional exchanges and strengthening the sharing of military expertise and experience.
The Tanzanian representative also referred to engagements between Tanzanian defence officials and their Egyptian counterparts aimed at identifying additional areas of cooperation, including military training, defence capabilities and defence industrial development.
Tanzania expressed its high regard for Egypt’s experience and capabilities in these areas, while reaffirming its commitment to translatin Tanzania, Egypt Strengthen Defence Ties as Cairo Marks 53rd Anniversary of October Victory.
g bilateral agreements into practical programmes that enhance professionalism, operational readiness and institutional capacity within the armed forces of both countries.
Such cooperation is increasingly important as countries seek to strengthen their defence institutions, improve professional capabilities and respond more effectively to evolving security threats.
The emphasis on defence industrial development also points to opportunities for technical cooperation and knowledge exchange, potentially supporting the long-term development of national defence capabilities.
Egypt Reflects on the Historical Significance of October Victory
In his address, Brigadier General Mokhtar Mady Mohammad described the October Victory as a defining moment in Egypt’s national history, representing the determination of the Egyptian people and the professionalism and courage of the country’s Armed Forces.
He emphasised that the victory remains a symbol of Egypt’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while paying tribute to the military personnel who participated in the historic campaign and those who sacrificed their lives in service to their country.
The Defence Attaché also recognised the leadership of the late Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, whose decision to pursue military action and cross the Suez Canal played a central role in the events commemorated.
According to Brigadier General Mady, the anniversary represents more than a military achievement, as it also reflects national unity, sacrifice and the determination to overcome formidable challenges.
He stressed that Egypt’s commitment to defending its territory has always coexisted with its pursuit of peace and international cooperation.
“Egypt, that has fought to reclaim its land, is the same Egypt that consistently strives for peace,” he stated, underscoring the importance of cooperation among nations as a pathway to peace, advancement and development.
He further observed that sustainable security cannot be achieved through national efforts alone, but requires mutual understanding, the exchange of expertise and respect for the sovereignty of states.
Military Diplomacy as a Foundation for Peace
Brigadier General Mady highlighted the value of continued military cooperation between Egypt and Tanzania, noting that shared initiatives and professional exchanges help build trust, strengthen mutual understanding and contribute to countering violence and extremism.
He also emphasised the importance of addressing security challenges in the Middle East responsibly, with particular attention to regional stability, respect for national sovereignty and the rejection of interference in the internal affairs of states.
The Defence Attaché expressed appreciation to Tanzania’s Ministry of Defence and National Service and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force for their cooperation, transparency and commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries.
His remarks reinforced the view that military diplomacy can play a constructive role in strengthening bilateral relations, building institutional confidence and creating opportunities for broader cooperation.
Tanzania and Egypt Highlight Shared Regional Security Priorities
Beyond their bilateral relationship, both countries highlighted the importance of cooperation in responding to security challenges affecting Africa and the wider international community.
In his address, Major General Salim identified armed conflicts, terrorism, transnational organised crime, maritime insecurity and emerging threats associated with technological developments and climate change as issues requiring coordinated responses.
He stressed that developments across the Horn of Africa, the wider African region and the Arabian Peninsula demonstrate the need for stronger regional partnerships, effective institutions and sustained diplomatic engagement.
Tanzania reaffirmed its commitment to African-led peace and security initiatives, institutional capacity-building and dialogue as essential instruments for preventing and resolving conflicts.
The Tanzanian representative also highlighted opportunities for closer cooperation with Egypt in conflict prevention, peace support operations, maritime security and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
He further emphasised that lasting peace and security are essential foundations for economic growth, regional integration and sustainable development, in line with the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
These priorities reflect the broader need for African countries and their international partners to strengthen cooperation while ensuring that security initiatives respect national sovereignty and the interests of local communities.
From Historical Solidarity to Future Cooperation
The commemoration of Egypt’s October Victory provided an opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of the anniversary while renewing attention to the future of Tanzania-Egypt relations.
For Egypt, the occasion recalled a defining chapter in its national history and the sacrifices made to defend its territorial integrity. For Tanzania, it provided a platform to reaffirm its commitment to a longstanding bilateral relationship that continues to offer opportunities for cooperation in strategic sectors.
The messages delivered by Major General Ahmed Salim, representing Minister Rhimo Nyansaho, and Brigadier General Mokhtar Mady Mohammad demonstrated the importance both countries attach to maintaining constructive relations and strengthening cooperation in defence and security.
As regional and international security challenges become increasingly interconnected, continued engagement between Tanzania and Egypt could contribute to stronger military institutions, enhanced professional exchanges and wider efforts to promote peace and stability.
Ultimately, the enduring partnership between the two countries rests on their shared commitment to mutual respect, sovereignty, diplomacy and development, principles that remain central to building a peaceful and prosperous future for their peoples.