MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – November 5, 2024 — Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre of the Federal Government of Somalia has met with Tanja Fajon, the Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia, to discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The high-level meeting, which took place on November 4, focused on several key areas of mutual interest, including climate change, social welfare, security, and human rights—issues of particular relevance as Somalia prepares to assume its role on the United Nations Security Council in 2025.
The visit by Deputy Prime Minister Fajon marked a significant step in strengthening the diplomatic and economic ties between Somalia and Slovenia. During the talks, both leaders emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration on global challenges, with climate change emerging as one of the most pressing topics on the agenda. The two sides also highlighted the need for greater cooperation in addressing social welfare challenges, enhancing security, and promoting human rights.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre expressed Somalia’s eagerness to collaborate with Slovenia on combating climate change, a challenge that has long been a priority for the Somali government. Given Somalia’s vulnerability to extreme weather events such as droughts and floods, the Prime Minister underscored the need for international partnerships to bolster the country’s resilience to climate-related impacts. He also highlighted the growing importance of green technology, sustainable development, and environmental conservation as part of Somalia’s long-term strategy for recovery and growth.
Security was another focal point of the meeting. Prime Minister Hamza briefed Deputy Prime Minister Fajon on the ongoing efforts by the Somali government to combat terrorism and violent extremism, particularly in the face of the militant group Al-Shabaab. The Prime Minister shared insights into the various military and intelligence operations that have led to significant successes in degrading the capabilities of terrorist groups operating within the country. He also highlighted Somalia’s commitment to improving security forces’ capabilities and fostering peace through diplomatic channels.
Somalia’s human rights record was also addressed, with both leaders agreeing on the need to strengthen human rights protections and ensure that the benefits of security and development are felt by all citizens, including vulnerable groups such as women, children, and displaced populations. The Deputy Prime Minister commended Somalia’s strides in these areas, while reiterating Slovenia’s support for ongoing human rights efforts in Somalia.
One of the most significant aspects of the meeting was the discussion surrounding Somalia’s upcoming role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. Somalia is set to assume this responsibility in January 2025, and Prime Minister Hamza emphasized how the country’s position on the Security Council would enhance its ability to advocate for peace, security, and development issues on the global stage.
In this regard, the Prime Minister noted that Somalia’s experience with conflict, resilience, and rebuilding would offer a unique perspective in international discussions on peace and security. He expressed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation, particularly on issues such as counterterrorism, humanitarian aid, and climate change, which are high on the UN Security Council’s agenda.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to explore ways in which Somalia and Slovenia can expand their bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of trade and investment. Slovenia, with its advanced economy and expertise in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, and information technology, presents an attractive partner for Somalia as the country continues its rebuilding efforts after decades of conflict.
Prime Minister Hamza highlighted the importance of fostering stronger economic ties with Slovenia, emphasizing that a robust trade and investment relationship would contribute to Somalia’s broader economic development and stability. Deputy Prime Minister Fajon expressed Slovenia’s willingness to support Somalia’s economic growth through technical assistance and knowledge sharing, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and capacity building.
The two leaders also agreed to work together on creating opportunities for educational exchange and cultural dialogue, which would further deepen the ties between the two countries and promote mutual understanding.
The visit of Deputy Prime Minister Tanja Fajon to Somalia represents an important milestone in the two nations’ diplomatic relations. As Somalia continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions, it looks to international partners like Slovenia for support in tackling global challenges and advancing its national development agenda.
For Slovenia, the partnership with Somalia offers an opportunity to expand its presence in the Horn of Africa region, promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development while contributing to global efforts to address issues such as climate change and human rights.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Fajon signals a new chapter in Somalia’s foreign policy, one that prioritizes constructive partnerships with nations that share a commitment to global peace and prosperity. As both countries look to the future, there is potential for deepened collaboration in numerous sectors, with the promise of a mutually beneficial and lasting relationship.
