Somali Foreign Minister and Saudi Counterpart Discuss Bilateral Cooperation and Maritime Security

MOGADISHU – The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Abdisalam Abdi Ali (Dhaay), has held a telephone conversation with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries.

During the call, both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to deepening fraternal ties and enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Prince Faisal reiterated the Kingdom’s unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, and political independence.

Saudi Arabia has consistently voiced political backing for Somalia’s territorial integrity and its efforts against Al-Shabaab, with both ministers exploring various avenues to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.

Maritime Security and Regional Stability

The two ministers emphasised the importance of securing international waters and ensuring freedom of navigation, particularly in the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Gulf of Aden. These waterways are vital for global trade and have been the focus of increased regional security cooperation.

The Federal Government has acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding a proposed tripartite security arrangement with Saudi Arabia and Egypt, focusing on enhancing collaboration on Red Sea security and broadening military partnerships.

Deepening Bilateral Cooperation

The phone call builds on a series of high-level engagements between Somalia and Saudi Arabia. Somalia and Saudi Arabia have previously established a landmark cooperation agreement focused on port development and maritime transport, aiming to enhance economic relations and reinforce collaborative security along critical Red Sea trade routes.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has held meetings with the Saudi Ambassador to Somalia to discuss investment and humanitarian cooperation, underscoring the breadth of the bilateral relationship.

Regional Security Context

Somalia has previously warned that any country interfering in its internal affairs could face repercussions, including potential restrictions on access to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a waterway through which an estimated 14 percent of global trade passes.

The discussions come at a time of heightened regional and international attention on the security of the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, particularly following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and its efforts to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa.

Way Forward

The phone call between the two foreign ministers reflects the growing strategic partnership between Somalia and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the areas of maritime security and regional stability. As both countries continue to coordinate on Red Sea security, the alignment of their positions on the Bab al-Mandab Strait is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future security architecture of the Horn of Africa.