Geneva, (SONNA) – The Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) and Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) have signed a new cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing immigration services and strengthening border security systems.
The agreement was signed during an official visit led by Mr. Mustafa Duhulow, Director General of the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency, who held high-level meetings with Swiss officials from the ministries of justice, foreign affairs, and technical experts in immigration and border management.
During the visit, Mr. Duhulow expressed appreciation to the Swiss government for its recent donation of specialized equipment to HSJ Somalia. The tools are designed to detect forged travel documents and are part of a broader initiative that also includes practical training programs and close institutional cooperation.
The new agreement focuses on:
- Upgrading immigration infrastructure in Somalia
- Enhancing the capacity of HSJ personnel
- Improving the integrity and global recognition of the Somali passport
“This is a results-oriented partnership that will significantly improve the quality and credibility of Somalia’s immigration services,” said Director General Duhulow.
As part of the mission, the Somali delegation visited Swiss land borders and airports, where they observed first-hand the use of modern technology in border control. They also exchanged technical insights with Swiss authorities on passport production and national identity systems, exploring strategies to improve the design, security features, and global standing of the Somali passport.
The collaboration is expected to play a key role in modernizing Somalia’s immigration systems, strengthening national security, and building international confidence in Somali travel documents.
