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Strengthening Bilateral Ties for a Brighter Future
On February 12, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Baku. This was the first official visit between the two nations, marking an important step in their relationship.
At a joint press conference, both leaders spoke about strengthening ties. President Aliyev called the visit historic, saying, “This is a significant moment in our bilateral relations. I am confident it will open a new chapter in our friendship.”
Several agreements were signed during the visit. President Aliyev emphasized their importance, stating, “These agreements show our commitment to closer cooperation in various areas. I am sure they will be implemented effectively and take our relations to a new level.”
One of the key topics discussed was defense collaboration. President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s strong defense industry, which produces various military equipment. He noted that defense training, joint manufacturing, and equipment supply from Azerbaijan to Somalia could become major areas of cooperation. “We have developed a robust defense industry, and we are ready to support Somalia in strengthening its capabilities,” he added.
He also spoke about mutual support in international organizations, saying, “We will continue backing each other in the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and other global platforms. Strong partnerships are crucial for both of our nations.”
President Mohamud expressed Somalia’s interest in deepening relations with Azerbaijan. He described the visit as more than a diplomatic meeting, calling it the beginning of a meaningful and strategic partnership. “This visit signifies a commitment to work together for the benefit of our people,” he said.
“Somalia and Azerbaijan have a shared vision for development, security, and progress,” he continued. He also praised Azerbaijan’s ability to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We admire the resilience and progress of Azerbaijan, and we hope to adopt similar strategies for Somalia’s growth.”
President Mohamud emphasized Somalia’s desire to learn from Azerbaijan’s success. “We want to understand how Azerbaijan has developed and apply those lessons in Somalia. We are eager to gain insights from your experience,” he stated. “Our country is in a transition phase, and we seek guidance from successful nations like Azerbaijan.”
Despite past challenges, President Mohamud remains hopeful about Somalia’s future. “Somalia is moving from a difficult past towards a brighter future. We have great potential and resources, but circumstances have slowed our progress. However, with the right partnerships, we can create a prosperous and stable nation.”
However, he expressed confidence that working with Azerbaijan would help Somalia unlock its potential. “With strong partners like Azerbaijan, Somalia’s progress will become clearer and more predictable. Stable governance and strategic development are essential, and Azerbaijan has valuable experience to share.”
Both leaders acknowledged the importance of economic cooperation in addition to defense and political collaboration. President Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan is open to sharing expertise in infrastructure development, energy, and trade. “We believe in economic progress through strong partnerships, and Somalia has significant untapped potential in these sectors,” he noted.
President Mohamud welcomed Azerbaijan’s interest in contributing to Somalia’s development. “We seek investment in infrastructure, education, and technology. These are crucial for Somalia’s long-term stability and prosperity,” he said.
Both leaders agreed that this visit was the start of a stronger, long-term partnership between Azerbaijan and Somalia. They committed to working together in areas such as defense, economic development, and international cooperation, marking a new era of friendship and mutual support between their countries.