By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia and the United States have agreed to establish joint technical committees aimed at accelerating cooperation in energy, trade and critical minerals following high-level talks held in Mogadishu. The initiative reflects growing diplomatic and economic engagement between the two countries as Somalia seeks to attract investment and expand its international economic partnerships.
The agreement was reached during meetings between senior officials from the Federal Government of Somalia and a United States delegation led by Justin Dives, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Mogadishu. Somalia was represented by key government officials, including Daahir Shire Mohamed, Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, and Jamaal Mohamed Hassan, Minister of Commerce and Industry.
According to officials, the joint committees will serve as a structured mechanism designed to translate policy discussions into practical projects, investment opportunities and long-term partnerships. These panels are expected to focus on improving regulatory alignment, strengthening investor protections and identifying priority sectors for development.
Particular attention will be given to Somalia’s emerging energy sector, including oil and gas exploration, renewable energy opportunities and the development of critical minerals. Somalia is believed to possess significant untapped natural resources, particularly offshore hydrocarbons along its coastline in the Indian Ocean. If developed responsibly and transparently, these resources could play a crucial role in transforming the country’s economy and reducing dependence on foreign aid.
The committees will also explore ways to facilitate trade between Somalia and the United States, reduce administrative and regulatory barriers, and promote stronger engagement between the private sectors of both countries. Officials say improved cooperation could help Somali businesses gain better access to global markets while encouraging American companies to explore investment opportunities in Somalia.
During the discussions, Somali authorities highlighted ongoing economic and governance reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and improving the country’s investment climate. These reforms include clarifying commercial regulations, strengthening anti-corruption measures, enhancing public financial management and building institutions capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.
The government emphasized that attracting responsible foreign direct investment remains a key priority as Somalia continues rebuilding its economy after decades of conflict and instability following the collapse of the central government in 1991. Officials noted that international partnerships, particularly with major economies such as the United States, are essential for developing infrastructure, energy resources and trade capacity.
The United States reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s economic development strategy and signaled readiness to deepen commercial engagement under clear legal frameworks and accountable governance standards. American officials emphasized that transparency, the rule of law and regulatory certainty will be crucial in encouraging investors to participate in Somalia’s energy and mineral sectors.
The U.S. delegation also stressed the importance of inclusive economic growth, noting that investment projects should contribute to job creation, skills development and local capacity building while supporting sustainable development across Somalia.
Both sides expressed confidence that the establishment of the joint technical panels will accelerate the implementation of agreed priorities and strengthen bilateral economic ties. Officials believe the new mechanism could help unlock Somalia’s energy potential, attract international investors and expand trade opportunities between the two countries.
If successfully implemented, the initiative could contribute significantly to economic growth, employment opportunities and long-term stability in Somalia while strengthening the partnership between Mogadishu and Washington.
