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Seasoned British diplomat arrives in Mogadishu, pledging to strengthen UK-Somalia ties and support peace and development efforts.
The United Kingdom’s newly appointed ambassador to Somalia, Charles Nicholas King, officially began his duties this week after arriving in the capital, Mogadishu, on Monday.
King was appointed to the position in February 2025, replacing Michael Nithavrianakis, who had served as the UK’s top diplomat in Somalia since May 2023.
Shortly after landing, King shared his excitement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). “Wheels down in Mogadishu. Honoured to begin my role as the UK’s Ambassador to Somalia. I look forward to working with Somali partners and learning more about this incredible country,” he wrote.
King is a seasoned diplomat with over 20 years of experience in the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). He brings a deep understanding of international relations and has worked in various parts of the world, especially in areas affected by conflict and political instability.
Before his appointment to Somalia, King was the Joint Head of the Gaza Taskforce, where he helped coordinate the UK’s diplomatic response to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories from 2023 to 2024. His role involved closely monitoring developments in the region and supporting efforts for peace and humanitarian assistance.
Between 2020 and 2023, King led the UK’s Levant and North Africa Department and also served as the country’s Special Representative for Syria. In that role, he helped guide British foreign policy in the Middle East, focusing on issues such as conflict resolution, regional cooperation, and humanitarian support.
King’s experience also includes several key diplomatic postings. From 2017 to 2020, he worked in Paris as the Counsellor for Foreign Policy and Strategic Affairs, strengthening UK-France relations. Earlier in his career, he held positions in Baghdad as Deputy Head of the Political Section (2009–2010), in Istanbul as Head of the Syria Office (2012–2015), and in Damascus as Second Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs (2008–2009). He also served as Chief of Staff to Jonathan Powell, the UK Prime Minister’s Special Representative for Libya, between 2015 and 2016.
With his new role in Somalia, King will be working closely with Somali leaders, civil society groups, and international partners to support peace, development, and stronger UK-Somalia relations. His arrival comes at a time when Somalia is making efforts to stabilize politically, improve its security, and rebuild after decades of conflict.
The UK has maintained a strong diplomatic presence in Somalia and remains a key supporter of the country’s recovery efforts. As ambassador, King is expected to focus on strengthening ties between the two nations, supporting governance and development programs, and promoting peace and security in the region.
King’s background in conflict resolution, international diplomacy, and humanitarian work is likely to be valuable in his new role. His arrival has been welcomed by many who hope for continued cooperation and progress in the UK-Somalia partnership.
Now settled in Mogadishu, King begins a new chapter in his diplomatic career—one that could play an important role in shaping Somalia’s future and its relationship with the international community.