The African circle is one of the most important Egyptian foreign policy circles as Egypt is closely related with Africa civilizationally, historically and geographically. Moreover, Egypt is destinally related with the African countries. Also, the whole world acknowledges Egypt's special relations and interests in Africa, thus rendering it one of the most important pivots which President Mubarak is highly interested in so as to foster the Egyptian-African ties and exert every possible effort to promote the Black Continent which forms a part of Egypt's national security and, at the same time, Egypt's economic and political interests.

 

In order to enhance the Egyptian-African relationships, President Mubarak, since he assumed office in November 1981, is always keen on establishing foundations for such political, economic and cultural relations in a manner that shows a strategic awareness and Egyptian commitment towards promotion the future of the continent. This strategy was crystallized in President Mubarak's addresses in various African forums and seminars to reflect his moderate active and effective diplomacy, together with concentrating on the development aspects in all fields. Based on the history that links Egypt with Africa and the ties of brotherhood among all its sons, President Mubarak pointed, in his speeches, to the humane dimension that characterizes the Egyptian-African relationships. He said:

 

"… All our peoples have common history and the same aspirations; they all face the same challenges and problem; hence, they all have united objectives…" and "…We build our relations with all African countries on one fact that no contradiction in our interests; therefore, we should find out solutions for existing disputes before they take new dimensions and spoil the family spirit that exists…". "…In all stages, we feel that we are going on our way with honorable friends who have good intentions and their thought is always heading towards the right way; hence a great example for a real solidarity that does not set geographical barriers or different political trends affect…". "...As Egypt's deeply rooted civilization in its historical essence is an African civilization that is heading towards the south, so it is natural that Egypt's African loyalty is that of fate and destiny. It is necessary that Egypt pays attention to Africa's concerns as its destiny is greatly related to the African issues that deserve to be defended…".

 

Moreover; President Mubarak emphasized that, "…The African Egyptian people is proud of being related to the African family and is pleased to share them their heritage, civilization and interests. The Egyptian people always remember their indeed friendships and noble loyality in all stages and under all circumstances. It is a historic fact that we are aware...".

Commenting on the disputes that looms among African countries, President Mubarak says: "…We believe that such disputes among some African countries do not reach the level of essential contradictions even if they take the form of ideological disputes and polarization between rightists and leftists, however this does not disregard all the strategic interests and objectives that binding African peoples…".

 

This is obvious in President Mubarak's visit to Senegal on April 3, 2007 to participate with 20 African leaders in re-inauguration of the Senegalese President Abdullah Wad for a second term which coincided with the 49^th anniversary of Senegal's independence, where he held talks with President Wad.  

 

Such talks concentrated on the African issues and fostering bilateral relationships. The Senegalese president had also asked for President Mubarak's support and technical assistances to facilitate convention the Islamic Summit in Dakar next year. 

This matter urged us to review Mubarak's role at the African arena throughout four chapters as follows:

 

Chapter I: tackles the Egyptian-African relationships from a political perspective through the Organization of African Unity, the African Union and fostering liberation movements.

 

Chapter II: tackles the Egyptian-African relations from a security perspective. It deals with Egypt's role in the peace and security issues and her membership in the mechanism of settlement of disputes, the African Peace and Security Council and meditation between the African brothers, facing the separatist movements, terrorism and organized crime. Moreover, its participation in the peace keeping force making Africa a zone free of nuclear weapons and the refugees issue.

 

Chapter III: tackles Egypt's role in development and reform issues in Africa through the Egyptian Fund for Technical Cooperation with Africa, NEPAD, economic blocs, joint projects and international efforts.

 

Chapter IV: tackles the Egyptian relationships with the Nile Basin Countries through joint accords and the Egyptian projects in these states.

 

The four chapters seek to prove some facts; the most important of which is that the Egyptian-African relationships are deep-rooted, growing and developing and are always occupying President Mubarak's thought.