Pretoria, (SONNA) — The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in South Africa on Tuesday received a courtesy visit from South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hon. H. Garief Hendricks.
The Deputy Minister was warmly welcomed at the Embassy by the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Somalia to South Africa, Ambassador Mohamed Sheikh Isxaq.
Discussions between the Deputy Minister and the Ambassador focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Somalia and South Africa, as well as enhancing cooperation on issues of mutual interest. Both officials agreed to work jointly and transparently in advancing the shared interests of the two governments.
Ambassador Mohamed Sheikh Isxaq also raised challenges facing the Somali community living in South Africa, particularly issues related to security, business activities, protection of life and property, and legal matters—especially newly approved regulations, including the recently adopted White Paper endorsed by South Africa’s Cabinet. The two sides agreed that concerns raised by the Somali community should be addressed through practical and constructive mechanisms.
For his part, Deputy Minister Hendricks noted that the Somali community in South Africa has integrated well into the country’s social fabric and stands out positively among other migrant communities, especially in the areas of business and social engagement.
In closing, Ambassador Mohamed Sheikh Isxaq expressed his appreciation to the Deputy Minister for the courtesy visit to the Somali Embassy, describing it as a positive step toward deepening cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries.
