ICAO Strengthens Aviation Cooperation with Somalia

DOHA, Qatar(SONNA)The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with Somalia, commending the country’s progress in developing its civil aviation sector.

The partnership aims to improve aviation services, build the skills and expertise of aviation personnel, strengthen air navigation systems, and support the implementation of international aviation safety standards. These efforts are intended to enhance the quality, safety, and efficiency of civil aviation services while creating lasting economic and social benefits for the Somali people.

The commitment was highlighted during a high-level meeting in Doha between ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar and the Director General of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), Ahmed Moallim Hassan, who led a Somali delegation.

The meeting was also attended by Michele Merkle, Director of ICAO’s Air Navigation Bureau, and Fabio Rabbani, Director of ICAO’s Implementation Support and Development Bureau.

During the discussions, SCAA Director General Ahmed Moallim Hassan emphasized that Somalia is prioritizing preparations for ICAO’s audit and assessment processes as part of broader efforts to strengthen the authority’s institutional capacity and improve the country’s civil aviation systems.

He also underscored the importance of sustained cooperation and technical assistance from ICAO to accelerate Somalia’s aviation development plans, enhance staff competencies, and modernize the systems and services essential to a safe and efficient aviation sector.

Stronger cooperation between Somalia and ICAO is expected to support continued improvements in aviation safety, air navigation, and service delivery. It also represents an important opportunity for Somalia to strengthen its regulatory capabilities, expand economic opportunities, and ensure that progress in the aviation sector delivers tangible, long-term benefits to the public.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Eighth Meeting of Directors General of Civil Aviation of the Middle East Region (DGCA-MID/8), where Somalia joined regional counterparts in discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation and advancing the development of civil aviation.

Somalia’s participation reflects its continued commitment to international collaboration, institutional capacity-building, and the alignment of its civil aviation sector with internationally recognized standards and best practices.