Pakistan, Somalia Agree to Boost Security, Counterterrorism Ties

Islamabad — Pakistan and Somalia on Friday agreed to broaden cooperation in internal security, with a focus on training, border control, disaster management, and the development of a joint approach to combating terrorism. The agreement followed talks between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a senior Somali delegation led by Interior Minister Ali Yusuf at the Ministry of Interior in Islamabad.

The discussions brought together top officials from both countries and centered on strengthening collaboration in policing and counterterrorism. During the meeting, Minister Naqvi announced eased visa procedures for Somali nationals traveling to Pakistan for medical care and educational opportunities.

Minister Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong support for Somalia, pledging full cooperation in law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts. He said Pakistan was prepared to share its expertise and work closely with Somalia across a range of security-related fields.

Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yusuf said his country is confronting serious security challenges and remains engaged in an active fight against terrorist groups. He expressed confidence that the visit would help deepen bilateral ties and open new avenues for cooperation.

Minister Yusuf also voiced interest in benefiting from Pakistan’s experience in governance and security, praising recent infrastructure development initiatives in Islamabad. Both sides emphasized the importance of enhanced coordination to promote mutual interests in security and other sectors.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Somali interior minister extended a formal invitation to Minister Naqvi to visit Somalia and conveyed a special message from Somalia’s prime minister to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the intent to further strengthen relations between the two countries