Mogadishu – In a move underscoring Somalia’s growing diplomatic engagement, State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Mohamed Omar, hosted a formal dinner on Monday evening to welcome eight newly accredited ambassadors to the country. The event followed an official ceremony in which President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi received the ambassadors’ credentials.
The high-level gathering, held in Mogadishu, brought together diplomats representing South Korea, Iraq, Côte d’Ivoire, Venezuela, Mexico, Mauritania, Ghana, and Ethiopia. The occasion served not only as a gesture of hospitality but also as an opportunity to reaffirm Somalia’s commitment to international cooperation and regional diplomacy.
In his remarks, State Minister Omar emphasized Somalia’s increasing engagement on the global stage, notably its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council—a significant milestone for the Horn of Africa nation. He stressed that this achievement reflects the international community’s confidence in Somalia’s progress and its role in contributing to global peace and security.
“Somalia’s recovery has been bolstered by the continued support of the international community, and we are grateful for the unwavering commitment of our friends, allies, and sisterly nations,” Omar said. “As we advance, we look forward to strengthening our bilateral partnerships and exploring new avenues of cooperation.”
The State Minister also used the occasion to call on nations to reopen their embassies in Mogadishu, which he described as a symbolic and practical step toward deepening diplomatic ties. “A stronger international presence in the capital will reflect our shared commitment to stability, peace, and long-term cooperation,” he noted.
The reception allowed the new ambassadors to engage with Somali officials and gain insight into the government’s priorities, particularly its focus on security, governance, and economic development. Omar concluded the evening by extending his appreciation to the diplomats for their presence and expressing optimism about the future of Somalia’s foreign relations.
“I wish you all success in your respective missions, and I hope your tenure will mark a new chapter in the relations between Somalia and your countries,” he added.
The arrival of these new envoys marks another step in Somalia’s ongoing diplomatic outreach and efforts to position itself as a constructive and cooperative partner on the international stage.
