Somalia and South Africa agree to expand cooperation in trade, education, and health

Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, on Tuesday held bilateral talks with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Hon. Ronald Lamola, in the capital Pretoria.

The discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic relations between the two countries and expanding cooperation in key sectors including trade, education, and health. Both ministers emphasized the importance of deepening political dialogue and enhancing people-to-people and institutional ties to advance shared interests.

Minister Abdisalam expressed Somalia’s appreciation for South Africa’s continued support for the sovereignty, unity, and security of the Federal Republic of Somalia. He noted that South Africa remains an important partner for Somalia in Africa, particularly in promoting peace, stability, and development on the continent.

The two sides agreed to further enhance bilateral cooperation and maintain close engagement, while accelerating the implementation of practical and result-oriented initiatives. They underscored the need to translate diplomatic commitments into tangible outcomes that directly benefit the people of both nations.

The meeting also highlighted opportunities for increased collaboration in economic development, capacity building, and social services, with a view to fostering sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.

Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs was accompanied by the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to South Africa, Mr. Mohamed Sheikh Ismail, during the bilateral talks.