NAIROBI — Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali represented President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, joining African and international leaders in discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation and reforming global governance structures.
The high-level summit brought together heads of state, foreign and defence ministers, African Union officials, and representatives from regional blocs including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), alongside international partners such as France.
Held under the theme “France Partnership for Innovation and Growth,” the forum focused on expanding collaboration between African countries and France in areas such as investment, innovation, economic development, and diplomatic engagement.
Discussions also highlighted growing calls for reform of global governance institutions to ensure greater representation for Africa and developing countries in international decision-making processes.
French President Emmanuel Macron attended the summit, engaging with African leaders on strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships, particularly in trade, security, and development cooperation.
Participants emphasized the need for practical initiatives to support economic growth, improve investment flows, and enhance Africa’s role in shaping global policy frameworks.
The summit is seen as part of ongoing efforts to deepen Africa’s engagement with international partners while promoting a more balanced and inclusive global order.
