ALGIERS, Algeria – The Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia, Mr. Yusuf Mohamed, held a significant bilateral meeting with his Algerian counterpart, Mr. Feyçal Ben Taleb, on the sidelines of the 4th Arab Forum for Equality, which recently concluded in the Algerian capital. This high-level engagement reflects a mutual commitment to deepening cooperation between the two Arab League member states in crucial social and economic domains.
The discussions between Minister Mohamed and Minister Ben Taleb were characterized as fruitful, focusing on key areas aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation. The agenda specifically addressed policies related to labor, the advancement of social welfare, and the invaluable exchange of experiences and best practices between Somalia and Algeria. Both ministers expressed a shared vision for collaborative efforts that would yield tangible benefits for their respective populations.
A central point of agreement during the meeting was the imperative to accelerate joint initiatives designed to foster job creation opportunities. This commitment is particularly pertinent for Somalia, a nation with a large youth demographic, where creating sustainable employment pathways is a top national priority for economic stability and social progress. The dialogue also emphasized collective action towards building a secure and sustainable future for the youth of Somalia, a challenge that resonates across many developing nations in the Arab world.
The meeting took place within the broader context of the 4th Arab Forum for Equality, a significant regional gathering organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in partnership with the Algerian Ministry of National Solidarity, Family, and Women’s Affairs. The forum convened high-level policymakers, researchers, and civil society leaders from across the Arab region to address pressing issues of inequality and the coverage of social protection systems. Discussions at the forum explored how robust and inclusive social protection frameworks can reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard individuals throughout their lives, especially amidst multifaceted challenges such as economic shifts and humanitarian crises.
Somalia’s active participation in such international and regional platforms highlights its dedication to fostering global partnerships and drawing inspiration from successful models in fellow Arab countries. For the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, these engagements are crucial for advancing its strategic objectives, which include reforming Somalia’s labor market, enhancing social safety mechanisms, and empowering vulnerable communities. The exchange of ideas with Algeria, a nation with extensive experience in social policy and labor management, is expected to provide valuable insights and practical approaches that can be adapted to Somalia’s unique context.
The commitment articulated by both ministers signals a promising path for enhanced collaboration, aiming to translate shared policy goals into concrete programs that directly impact the lives of citizens, promoting social justice and economic inclusion.
