Mogadishu, (SONNA) — The Federal Government of Somalia and the United States on Tuesday held high-level talks in Mogadishu aimed at expanding bilateral trade and investment cooperation, with a strong focus on commerce and the energy sector.
The meeting marked the first time such formal discussions have been held inside Somalia, underscoring growing confidence in the country’s improving security and economic outlook. The U.S. delegation was led by the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Somalia, Justin Dives, while the Somali side included senior government officials from the Ministries of Commerce and Industry, Petroleum and Minerals, and Foreign Affairs.
During the talks, Somali officials presented a range of investment opportunities and highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, clarifying commercial regulations, and safeguarding investor rights. They emphasized that these measures are designed to create a predictable, secure, and investor-friendly business environment capable of attracting foreign direct investment.
Discussions focused in particular on opportunities in critical minerals, oil and gas, and the broader development of Somalia’s energy sector. Both sides stressed the importance of clear legal frameworks, accountable governance, and long-term partnerships to ensure sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The meeting also agreed on the establishment of joint technical committees to follow up on the outcomes of the discussions and to accelerate implementation of agreed priorities.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, Daahir Shire Mohamed, and Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jamaal Mohamed Hassan, described the talks as opening a new chapter in economic relations between Somalia and the United States.
For his part, Justin Dives reaffirmed Washington’s readiness to support Somalia’s efforts to strengthen economic development, expand investment, and build partnerships based on shared interests, responsibility, and transparency.
Both sides expressed optimism that the dialogue would pave the way for deeper commercial ties, contribute to economic growth, and create new employment opportunities in Somalia.
