Cairo, SONNA – The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Amb. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, addressed the Second Ministerial Conference of the Khartoum Process on Wednesday, which commenced in Cairo under the chairmanship of the Arab Republic of Egypt. The conference, bringing together representatives from nearly 50 countries in Europe and the Horn of Africa, alongside regional and international organizations, focused on strengthening efforts to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking.
In his address at the conference, Minister Fiqi expressed Somalia’s appreciation to Egypt for its leadership in convening the gathering and guiding the Process.
“Over the past decade, the Khartoum Process has remained both relevant and responsive to the dynamic realities of migration,” he said. “It continues to serve as a vital platform for constructive dialogue, partnership, and action.”
The Minister reaffirmed Somalia’s strong commitment to the Process, noting the country’s role in temporarily replacing Sudan on the Steering Committee since October 2021. He welcomed Sudan’s return and supported the restoration of its seat.
“In a spirit of African solidarity and responsibility, Somalia stepped in to help maintain continuity during a challenging time. Today, we warmly welcome our Sudanese brothers and sisters back,” he noted.
Minister Fiqi also highlighted the importance of adopting a comprehensive, inclusive approach to migration governance, aligned with the Cairo Action Plan. He emphasized national efforts to strengthen coordination mechanisms and develop rights-based, gender-sensitive policies that address the root causes of irregular migration.
“The approach to migration must involve enhanced cooperation, focusing on migrant protection, return and reintegration, and dismantling criminal networks,” he stated.
He commended Egypt for its efforts during its Chairmanship and thanked the European Commission, African Union Commission, and ICMPD for their continued support. In closing, Minister Fiqi expressed Somalia’s full support for France’s incoming Chairmanship and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the objectives of the Khartoum Process.
