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Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, to Mogadishu for high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. The March 19, 2025, meeting marked a significant step in deepening diplomatic and economic ties as Somalia continues its recovery journey from years of conflict and instability.
Held at the Presidential Palace in Mogadishu, the discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in key areas, including development aid, investment, and security. President Mohamud expressed gratitude for the UAE’s longstanding support to Somalia, particularly in humanitarian aid and infrastructure development. “The UAE has been a steadfast partner in Somalia’s progress, and this meeting reaffirms our shared commitment to advancing peace and prosperity,” Mohamud stated.
Minister Reem Al Hashimy praised Somalia’s efforts to rebuild and stabilize, emphasizing the UAE’s willingness to contribute further to the country’s development. “Somalia is at a pivotal moment in its history, and the UAE is dedicated to standing alongside the Somali people as they work toward a brighter future,” she said. Al Hashimy also pledged increased UAE support in areas such as education, healthcare, and capacity-building initiatives.
The UAE is among Somalia’s key diplomatic allies, with relations spanning decades. The Gulf nation has provided significant assistance in the form of aid, development grants, and investments in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, and logistics. In recent years, the UAE has also contributed to strengthening Somalia’s security apparatus, including anti-piracy operations and counter-terrorism measures.
One of the focal points of the Mogadishu meeting was exploring opportunities for UAE investments in Somalia’s emerging sectors. The Somali government highlighted its plans to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in agriculture, fisheries, and renewable energy. Minister Al Hashimy expressed interest in collaborating on initiatives that would bolster Somalia’s economy and create sustainable job opportunities for its citizens.
Another key topic of discussion was regional security and cooperation in combating terrorism. Somalia’s battle against the Al-Shabaab militant group remains a central challenge, and President Mohamud has called for robust international collaboration to dismantle extremist networks. The UAE has been instrumental in providing strategic support for Somalia’s security forces, a partnership both sides reaffirmed during the meeting.
The talks also touched on maritime security in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, areas critical to global trade and heavily affected by piracy. Somalia and the UAE pledged to strengthen coordination in securing shipping lanes and safeguarding maritime commerce.
As part of the visit, Minister Al Hashimy toured UAE-funded projects in Mogadishu, including hospitals and schools, underscoring the tangible impact of their partnership. She also met with Somali youth leaders to discuss the importance of empowerment and education in building a stable future.
The meeting has been widely hailed as a diplomatic milestone for Somalia, demonstrating its growing engagement with the international community. Somali Foreign Minister Abshir Omar Jama described the visit as “a reaffirmation of Somalia’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships and advancing mutual interests.”
The Somali public has welcomed the deepening of ties with the UAE, viewing it as a positive step toward rebuilding the nation’s economy and infrastructure. Political analysts suggest that the UAE’s increased involvement in Somalia could pave the way for broader regional cooperation, benefiting the Horn of Africa.
As Somalia continues to make strides in its recovery, partnerships like the one with the UAE are expected to play a crucial role in sustaining progress and addressing the country’s challenges. The meeting in Mogadishu not only reflects a shared vision for development but also highlights the importance of diplomacy in fostering lasting stability.