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Somalia and Saudi Arabia have signed a major maritime transport cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening their relationship and improving Somalia’s ports and shipping industry. The deal was signed in Riyadh by Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser.
The agreement sets up a formal framework for long-term cooperation between the two countries in areas such as maritime transport, port development, and logistics. Officials from both sides said the partnership is designed to align their economic and strategic interests while supporting Somalia’s efforts to modernize its maritime sector.
Under the agreement, the two countries will work together to upgrade Somalia’s port infrastructure and improve maritime transport services. This includes sharing technical knowledge, improving regulations, and strengthening systems that govern the shipping and logistics sectors. The partnership will also focus on building the capacity of Somali maritime professionals by providing training and skills development programs to boost efficiency and technical expertise.
Somali officials say the deal is an important step in helping the country better connect to regional and global trade networks. With improved ports and shipping services, Somalia aims to increase trade activity, attract more investment, and strengthen its position as a key player along important maritime routes.
Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur described the agreement as a reflection of the growing ties between Mogadishu and Riyadh. He said the partnership not only supports economic development but also highlights Saudi Arabia’s role as a strategic ally. According to Somali officials, Saudi Arabia has continued to support Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, especially at a time when geopolitical competition in the region is increasing.
The maritime corridor linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden is one of the world’s busiest and most important trade routes. A significant portion of global trade passes through these waters, making the region strategically vital. In recent years, competition among regional and international powers has increased, raising the importance of cooperation and stability in the area.
By strengthening maritime collaboration, Somalia hopes to improve governance in its shipping sector and ensure its ports meet international standards. Modern, efficient ports are seen as key to boosting the country’s economy, as they can reduce shipping costs, shorten transit times, and make Somalia more attractive to international investors.
Saudi Arabia has expanded its involvement in the Horn of Africa over the past few years, focusing on trade, infrastructure development, security cooperation, and maritime stability. The new agreement with Somalia fits within this broader strategy, reflecting Riyadh’s interest in supporting stable and reliable trade routes across the Red Sea and surrounding areas.
For Somalia, the partnership represents more than just technical cooperation. It is part of a broader effort to rebuild national institutions, improve public services, and create economic opportunities after decades of instability. Strengthening the maritime and logistics sectors is seen as a crucial step in driving long-term economic growth and improving livelihoods.
Both countries expressed optimism that the agreement will deliver practical results in the coming years. Through closer collaboration, knowledge sharing, and investment, Somalia and Saudi Arabia aim to create a stronger maritime partnership that benefits both nations and supports stability and economic progress across the region.