Somalia and Saudi Arabia strengthen security cooperation through high-level talks

The Minister of Internal Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartaag), who is on an official working visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held a formal meeting with the Saudi Deputy Minister of Interior, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Ayyaf.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of security, counterterrorism, and the exchange of security expertise, as well as enhancing coordination between the security institutions of the two countries. Both sides also discussed ways to expand Saudi Arabia’s support for the rebuilding, modernization, and capacity development of Somalia’s security sector.

Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail expressed his appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continued support to Somalia, particularly in the fields of security, stability, and counterterrorism. He emphasized the importance of sustained and effective cooperation between the two nations to address shared security challenges and to support Somalia’s ongoing efforts to restore peace and strengthen state institutions. The meeting was attended by the Commander of the Somali Police Force, General Asad Osman Abdullahi, who highlighted the value of regional and international partnerships in building professional and resilient security forces.

For his part, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Ayyaf reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to standing alongside Somalia and supporting its security institutions. He underscored the Kingdom’s readiness to continue providing assistance aimed at enhancing security capabilities and contributing to long-term stability in Somalia.

The meeting forms part of the Federal Government of Somalia’s broader diplomatic and security engagement strategy, which seeks to deepen international partnerships, strengthen counterterrorism cooperation, and promote sustainable peace and stability across the country.