Mogadishu, SONNA — The Federal Government of Somalia and the European Union (EU) held a high-level Partnership Dialogue in Mogadishu on 10 May under Article 3 of the Samoa Agreement, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation and advancing shared priorities in security, governance, migration, and economic development.
The Somali delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Salah Ahmed Jama alongside ministers responsible for Defence, Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Internal Security, Finance, Planning, Investment and Economic Development, and Commerce and Industry.
The European Union delegation was led by Francesca Di Mauro together with ambassadors and representatives from EU member states including Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden, as well as officials from the EU Training Mission in Somalia and the EU Capacity Building Mission.
The meeting discussed the current regional and international situation, including the impact of conflicts in the Gulf region on economic resilience and regional security, while Somalia continues to face humanitarian challenges caused by drought and displacement.
The Federal Government briefed the meeting on the ongoing constitutional review process and consultations with political stakeholders aimed at reaching consensus on the country’s electoral process. The EU welcomed efforts toward dialogue and emphasized the importance of maintaining political stability and inclusive engagement across Somalia.
Somalia also updated partners on recent military operations against al-Shabaab and ongoing reforms within the security sector aimed at strengthening professionalism, accountability, transparency and institutional effectiveness.
The European Union reaffirmed its continued support for Somalia’s peace and stabilization efforts, including support for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and capacity-building for Somali Security Forces. EU officials noted the bloc’s recent approval of a 75 million euro contribution to support AUSSOM operations.
Both sides underscored the importance of accelerating stabilization efforts in liberated areas to consolidate security gains and improve public services.
The dialogue also focused on migration and mobility, with discussions centered on addressing the root causes of irregular migration, combating human trafficking, supporting internally displaced persons and promoting safe and dignified return and reintegration programs.
On economic cooperation, the two sides discussed ways to strengthen Somalia’s investment climate, support private sector growth and create employment opportunities for Somali youth through skills development and access to finance.
The meeting further highlighted the importance of the upcoming EU-Somalia Business Forum expected to take place in October as a platform to expand investment opportunities and economic partnership.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Somalia and the European Union reaffirmed their strong partnership based on mutual interests, cooperation and shared values, agreeing to hold the next Partnership Dialogue in twelve months.
