Somalia and Italy Deepen Security Ties with New MoU on Police Development and Border Management

MOGADISHU – The Minister of Internal Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, General Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartaag), has received his Italian counterpart, Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi, for talks culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen bilateral security cooperation, police training, counter-terrorism efforts, and migration management.

The signing ceremony, held in Mogadishu on July 3, was attended by the Somali Police Force Commander, Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi, and the Director General of the Ministry of Internal Security, Mohamed Hassan Shire. The agreement focuses on developing training and professional development programmes for the Somali Police Force, enhancing the capacity of Somali trainers to train other officers, and facilitating the exchange of expertise, knowledge, and best practices in security institution development.

Both sides affirmed that the agreement is grounded in respect for the national laws of both countries and international obligations, and is expected to contribute to strengthening the capabilities of security institutions, improving the professionalism of the Somali Police Force, and advancing efforts to ensure peace, stability, and the fight against shared security threats.

Italy continues to be a vital contributor to Somalia’s security sector reform efforts, offering substantial support through bilateral arrangements and the European Union Training Mission.

A Framework for Police Professionalisation

The MoU represents a deepening of security cooperation between the two countries, with a particular emphasis on professionalising the Somali Police Force. The Somali National Army Commander has previously engaged with the Italian Defense Attaché to advance military collaboration, reinforcing Italy’s position as a cornerstone partner in Somalia’s broader security sector reform and its ongoing transition toward assuming full national security responsibilities.

Italy’s support for Somalia’s security institutions has been consistent. The Italian Defence Chief has visited Mogadishu for high-level security talks, underscoring Italy’s ongoing support for Somalia’s defence sector, including training, capacity building, and operational partnerships in the fight against terrorism and organised crime.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

The agreement follows recent high-level engagements between the two countries. The Somali Defence Minister held a high-level meeting in Rome with his Italian counterpart, where discussions centred on expanding collaboration in key strategic areas, including maritime security, counter-terrorism operations, military training, and the professionalisation of the Somali National Armed Forces. Both governments expressed strong alignment under Italy’s Mattei Plan, a strategic framework designed to deepen partnerships with African nations through security, development, and institutional cooperation.

Security Sector Reform and the Transition to AUSSOM

Italy has pledged to fully support the transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM in Somalia, ensuring a smooth handover of security responsibilities to Somali forces. The signing of the MoU on police development is consistent with Italy’s broader commitment to helping Somalia build sustainable and accountable security institutions capable of assuming full responsibility for national security.

Way Forward

The signing of the security cooperation agreement marks a significant step in deepening the partnership between Somalia and Italy, particularly in the areas of police training, counter-terrorism, and border management. As Somalia continues its transition toward full security responsibility, Italy’s backing remains a critical pillar in its path toward self-reliance and lasting stability. The agreement is expected to pave the way for new joint initiatives, including enhanced police training programmes, capacity-building efforts, and the exchange of expertise between the two countries’ security institutions.