MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Abdisalam Ali, on Sunday held a farewell meeting in Mogadishu with the outgoing European Union Ambassador to Somalia, Ms. Francesca Di Mauro, as she concluded her diplomatic mission in the country.
The meeting, held at the Ministry headquarters, highlighted what both sides described as the strong and evolving partnership between Somalia and the European Union, particularly in governance, security stabilization, humanitarian assistance, and institutional development.
Minister Abdisalam Ali praised Ambassador Di Mauro for her “dedicated and constructive engagement” during her tenure, saying her work had strengthened dialogue between Mogadishu and Brussels during a key period in Somalia’s state-building process.
He noted that the European Union remains one of Somalia’s most important development partners, supporting security sector reform, public financial management, institutional capacity building, and humanitarian response for communities affected by conflict and climate shocks.
The Minister also congratulated her on her appointment as Director for Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS), describing it as recognition of her experience in African affairs.
Ambassador Di Mauro thanked the Somali government for its cooperation, noting progress in Somalia’s political and security situation while stressing the need for continued international support to sustain gains and address remaining challenges.
She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Somalia, particularly in peacebuilding, governance reform, and long-term development support.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen Somalia–EU relations and continue cooperation on peace, stability, and economic recovery in the Horn of Africa.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both sides exchanging best wishes and expressing optimism for continued collaboration under her new EU role.
