By Horn Africa News
BELGRADE– Somalia’s Defense Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, on Tuesday paid an official visit to the Military Technical Institute in Belgrade as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Somali National Army and expand international defense cooperation.
Fiqi was warmly received by senior Serbian defense officials, who briefed him on the institute’s advancements in modern military technology, including drones, advanced artillery, and other cutting-edge equipment.
The visit underscores Somalia’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and seeking new security partnerships. “This visit reflects the federal government’s priority to build a modern military capacity through trusted international cooperation,” said a Somali defense official who spoke on condition of anonymity as talks are still underway.
The Belgrade institute is regarded as one of Eastern Europe’s leading centers for military research and technology. Serbia has recently expanded its defense ties with African and Middle Eastern countries.
Although no formal agreements were announced, both sides expressed readiness to deepen collaboration, particularly in training, knowledge exchange, and defense technology.
The trip also highlights Somalia’s broader diplomatic push to secure new security allies at a time of shifting geopolitics in the Horn of Africa.
