Somalia Independence Day Celebrated, Pakistan Pledges Support

Deepening ties highlighted at Islamabad event

Pakistan affirmed its commitment to Somalia’s stability and growth at an event celebrating Somalia’s Independence Day. Speakers underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations and explored avenues for enhanced cooperation.

Honoring Historical Ties

The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), together with the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), organized the event. The ceremony began with the national anthems of both Pakistan and Somalia. **Amina Khan**, Director of CAMEA, served as moderator.

Speakers included **Ambassador Sohail Mahmood**, Director General ISSI; **Yasin Mire Mohamud**, Deputy Head of Mission of Somalia to Pakistan; **Shahid Ali Seehar**, Ambassador of Pakistan to Djibouti; and **Ambassador Khalid Mahmood**, Chairman BOG ISSI. **Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed**, President of PAIDAR, was the Chief Guest, and **Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan**, Additional Secretary (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was the Keynote Speaker.

Call for Renewed Diplomatic Presence

**Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed** lauded the strong relationship between Pakistan and Somalia, recalling Pakistan’s sacrifices in Mogadishu and military assistance during the Ogaden conflict. He said that “Islamabad has always stood by Mogadishu in its hour of need.” He also urged the Foreign Office to reopen Pakistan’s embassy in Mogadishu and offered to lead a think tank delegation there.

Noting that both Pakistan and Somalia are currently on the UN Security Council, **Sayed** advocated for increased collaboration in security, trade, and education. He pointed out that Pakistan hosts the largest number of Somali students globally. According to UNESCO, as of 2022, Somalia’s gross enrollment ratio for tertiary education is only 3% UNESCO. “Together we will build a better tomorrow,” he concluded.

Pakistan’s Enduring Support

**Ambassador Sohail Mahmood** emphasized the historical importance of July 1, 1960, when British and Italian Somaliland united to form the Somali Republic. He noted this was a pivotal moment in Africa’s decolonization. **Mahmood** recalled Pakistan’s early recognition of Somalia’s independence and the contributions of Pakistani peacekeepers to Somalia’s security.

He further highlighted the educational ties between the two countries, with many Somali students studying in Pakistan and contributing to Somalia’s development. **Ambassador Mahmood** stressed the importance of enhancing trade and economic relations, encouraging greater interaction between business communities.

He also acknowledged shared positions at international forums like the UN and OIC. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening collaboration with Somalia under the ‘Engage Africa’ policy. He said that Somalia’s strategic location makes it crucial for regional peace and maritime security. He also expressed ISSI’s eagerness to expand academic collaboration with Somali institutions.

Unlocking Africa’s Potential

**Ambassador Hamid Asghar** stressed Africa’s significant potential for trade, investment, and cooperation, and urged Pakistan to deepen its engagement with the continent. He cited Pakistan’s support through projects like NADRA’s ID initiative and peacekeeping efforts. He suggested a Preferential Trade Agreement and joint ventures in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, ports, and agriculture.

**Amina Khan** highlighted Somalia’s Independence Day as a testament to the resilience of its people. She also emphasized Africa’s central role in Pakistan’s ‘Engage Africa’ policy and CAMEA’s commitment to strengthening ties with Somalia.

Somalia’s Gratitude and Progress

**Yasin Mire Mohamud**, the Deputy Head of Mission of Somalia to Pakistan, celebrated Somalia’s progress, which was built on the sacrifices of its forefathers. He noted advancements in governance, infrastructure, and healthcare, as well as growing business and investment opportunities. He described the joint election of Somalia and Pakistan to the UN Security Council as a shared achievement.

Expressing gratitude, he recalled Pakistan’s vital support during Somalia’s civil war and its role in peacekeeping and diplomacy, including supporting the lifting of the arms embargo in 2023. He affirmed Somalia’s determination to build a secure and prosperous future.

**Ambassador Shahid Ali Seehar** conveyed warm wishes to Somalia, highlighting the historic and growing ties since its independence in 1960. He mentioned the strong convergence of views, particularly as both countries are currently non-permanent members of the UN Security Council.

He noted Pakistan’s support, including a US$14 million grant for Somalia’s National ID System and increased scholarships for Somali students. He also called for greater cooperation in counterterrorism, boosting trade, and exploring maritime connectivity.

**Ambassador Khalid Mahmood** affirmed Pakistan’s affection for Somalia, noting the significant Somali diaspora benefiting from Pakistan’s educational institutions. He expressed optimism for the continued growth of Pakistan-Somalia relations.