MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, officially presided over the closing ceremony of the 35th Ordinary Policy Organs Meeting of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) today. The high-level summit, which convened in Mogadishu from December 13 to 18, 2025, brought together defense ministers, military commanders, and security experts from across the region to deliberate on collective security strategies.
In his closing address, Prime Minister Barre commended the Ministry of Defense for its exceptional organization and management of the consecutive sessions, which ranged from technical expert meetings to the Council of Ministers. He stated that the successful hosting of such a critical regional forum serves as a clear indication of the substantial progress Somalia has achieved in the areas of peace, stability, and institutional reconstruction.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the event reflects the growing confidence and solidarity that East African nations extend to Somalia. He noted that Mogadishu’s ability to host major diplomatic and security gatherings demonstrates the country’s return to the center of regional decision-making.
The Minister of Defense, H.E. Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, also addressed the delegates, reinforcing the necessity of unity, close cooperation, and accountability among the EASF member states. Minister Fiqi asserted that the resolutions adopted during this session are essential for strengthening the operational capacity of the Standby Force. He highlighted that these outcomes will directly contribute to preventing security threats and establishing sustainable peace and stability throughout Eastern Africa.
