MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, held talks with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Somalia, Aqsa Nawaz, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence, security, and military capacity building between the two countries.
The meeting reviewed ongoing defence agreements and explored ways to accelerate the implementation of existing understandings aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Somali National Army (SNA). Discussions placed particular emphasis on military training programs, professional development, and technical support intended to improve the effectiveness and readiness of Somalia’s armed forces.
Both sides also examined opportunities to advance cooperation in the aviation sector, including support for the development and modernization of the Somali Air Force. The talks highlighted the importance of building specialized skills, improving operational capacity, and expanding technical expertise within Somalia’s military institutions.
Counterterrorism cooperation was another key topic during the discussions, with Somalia and Pakistan reaffirming their shared commitment to combating extremist threats and promoting regional stability. The two parties stressed that future collaboration would be based on mutual interests, respect for sovereignty, and strengthened diplomatic relations.
The meeting forms part of Somalia’s broader efforts to deepen defence partnerships with friendly nations as the country continues rebuilding its security institutions and enhancing the capabilities of its national forces.
Senior military officials attended the talks, including the Commander of the Somali Air Force, Brigadier General Abdirisaaq Mahmoud Haji, and the Defence Attaché at the Embassy of Pakistan, Colonel Mohammad Inam Khattak.
The meeting concluded with an understanding to continue close cooperation and accelerate joint initiatives aimed at further strengthening defence and security relations between Somalia and Pakistan.
