ISLAMABAD — Somalia and Pakistan have officially reached an agreement to eliminate visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, a significant measure designed to enhance bilateral relations and foster greater cooperation between both nations.
The agreement was solidified during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, where Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation, H.E. Ali Yusuf Ali (Hosh), held discussions with Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari. Both leaders observed the signing ceremony, marking a new chapter in diplomatic ties.
Security and Economic Partnership
Beyond the visa waiver, the discussions addressed a broad range of collaborative efforts. Somali officials reported that the agenda included cooperation in law enforcement, counter-narcotics initiatives, and the strengthening of economic partnerships.
The Somali delegation also provided their Pakistani counterparts with a detailed update on the Federal Government’s continuous campaign against Islamist militants and its ongoing initiatives to improve regional security coordination.
Commitment to Sovereignty
During the talks, President Zardari confirmed Pakistan’s continued backing for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. He stated that Islamabad remains prepared to enhance political and diplomatic collaboration to promote peace, stability, and state-building efforts in the Horn of Africa.
This development aligns with Somalia’s broader strategy of pursuing expanded partnerships with significant international allies to fortify its security institutions and elevate its diplomatic position globally.
