Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s push to modernize its justice sector gained new momentum this week as State Minister for Justice, Ilyas Omar Ibrahim, met Egypt’s Justice Minister Adnan Fangary on the sidelines of the 41st Arab Ministers of Justice Conference in Cairo. Their discussions, held in a climate of shared purpose, reflected how both nations are seeking stronger legal coordination at a time when regional cooperation is becoming increasingly vital.
The meeting focused on expanding practical avenues for judicial collaboration, particularly in the areas that Somalia has identified as priorities: reforms that strengthen the rule of law, training programs that equip judges with modern skills, and improved institutional capacity across justice ministries. For Egypt, which has long offered technical support to Arab League member states, the conversation underscored a desire to play a larger role in regional legal harmonization.
Officials familiar with the talks described a sense of urgency on both sides. Somalia is managing complex justice needs while simultaneously rebuilding state institutions, and Egypt views deeper cooperation as a way to reinforce collective stability within the Arab League. The two ministries agreed to speed up joint initiatives that have previously moved slowly—among them exchange programs, legal drafting support, and opportunities for Somali judicial personnel to benefit from Egyptian training academies.
The Cairo conference, which brought together senior legal officials from across the Arab world, provided the backdrop for renewed commitments to better align justice systems and strengthen cooperation frameworks. For Somalia, participating in these regional mechanisms is not only about technical support but also about embedding its justice reforms within broader Arab League standards.
As the meeting concluded, both sides indicated they were prepared to translate their discussions into concrete action. With Somalia’s justice sector undergoing a period of ambitious change, the renewed partnership with Egypt could mark a significant step toward more efficient courts, stronger legal protections, and a deeper connection with regional judicial networks.
