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Somalia, Uganda agree on free visas on arrival for diplomatic and service passport holders following high-level diplomatic consensus reached during bilateral proceedings in Mogadishu. The reciprocal visa waiver agreement eliminates entry fee requirements and prior travel authorization processes for official state delegations, diplomats, and civil servants traveling between the two East African nations. The landmark arrangement is designed to streamline inter-governmental consultations, enhance administrative efficiency, and facilitate direct state-to-state communication across security, economic, and regional integration sectors.
The bilateral agreement operationalizes key provisions of a broader memorandum of understanding on immigration management previously signed by both governments. Officials from both foreign ministries emphasized that granting free entry privileges for official passport holders builds upon long-standing military, political, and socio-economic partnerships. The decision aligns with regional frameworks within the East African Community aimed at promoting the free movement of citizens, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and expanding regional diplomatic engagement.
Diplomatic representatives noted that simplifying entry procedures for government officials will significantly bolster joint committee operations, trade negotiations, and technical exchange programs. State institutions in Mogadishu and Kampala are coordinating logistics to implement standard operational protocols across key entry points, including Aden Adde International Airport and Entebbe International Airport. Foreign policy analysts observe that establishing visa exemption frameworks reflects growing mutual trust and strategic alignment as both nations pursue shared economic diversification and security objectives.
Government leaders from both countries commended the agreement as an important step toward deepening bilateral ties and fostering closer institutional cooperation across East Africa. As Somalia, Uganda agree on free visas on arrival for diplomatic and service passport holders, both administrations remain committed to expanding bilateral mechanisms that support sustainable development, economic partnerships, and regional stability.