ALGIERS- Algeria and Somalia reiterated their shared determination to foster relations of fraternity in various fields.
In a joint statement on the occasion of the official visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, to Algeria, at the invitation of the Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, from August 9 to 11, the two countries affirmed that this visit reflects their mutual will to invigorate the fraternal relations between them.
During this visit, Somali Foreign Minister met with Prime Minister, Nadir Larbaoui, and handed over a written message addressed to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune from Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Additionally, Ministers Ahmed Attaf and Abdisalam Abdi Ali held discussions reviewing the status of bilateral relations, exploring ways to strengthen and develop cooperation in various domains, and exchanged views on key common interests at the Arab, African, and international levels.
Regarding bilateral relations, both ministers agreed to establish a joint ministerial commission responsible for cooperation and partnership issues, and a political consultation mechanism between the two countries. These bodies are expected to hold their first sessions promptly, including diplomat training initiatives.
In this context, the two parties signed memoranda of understanding to create:
A joint ministerial commission between the governments of Algeria and Somalia,
A political consultation mechanism between the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,
An agreement between the Diplomatic and International Relations Institute of Algeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Diplomatic Studies Institute of Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.
They also discussed prospects for cooperation in education to deepen friendly ties, including coordination and joint efforts in international and regional forums related to culture and education.
They declared their intent to increase Somali university scholarships from 15 to 50 annually, covering various education levels and specialties requested by Somalia.
Both parties agreed to offer specialized, high-quality training to Somali experts, particularly in hydrocarbons and health sectors.
The two sides also discussed enhancing shared cultural heritage, exchanging expertise, and strengthening cooperation in technical and applied education, as well as exchanging knowledge between their educational institutions.
Politically, they highlighted the deep and solid historic fraternal relations and congratulated the level of consultation and political coordination at all levels regarding shared issues. They expressed the desire to further develop these relations according to the aspirations of their peoples.
The Algerian side reiterated its strong and unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, rejecting all foreign interference and reaffirming support in Somalia’s fight against terrorism to preserve security and stability.
The parties agreed to continue coordinating their positions in international forums to face challenges and positively contribute to resolving crises and stopping foreign interference.
They reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support for candidacies in international and regional bodies. Somalia congratulated Algeria on electing Selma Malika Haddadi as Vice-President of the African Union Commission and Algeria’s election as a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council for 2025-2028, with Algeria assuming the rotating chairmanship in August 2025. > Latifa: On regional, continental, and international current issues, they agreed to intensify consultations and coordination within the UN Security Council, particularly on Arab and African matters, as non-permanent members representing these groups.
Regarding the Palestinian cause, both sides condemned the genocidal war waged by the Zionist occupation against the Palestinian people in Gaza since October 7, 2023, causing over 60,000 martyrs and over 100,000 wounded, plus massive destruction. They affirmed support for the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent, sovereign state based on 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital, consistent with international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.
Algeria and Somalia pledged to work with international partners to obtain full UN membership for Palestine, reject all attempts to deport Palestinians from their land in Gaza, and reject any Zionist entity presence within African Union institutions or meetings in any form.
Concerning the Sudan crisis, they stressed the unity of this brotherly country, the importance of restoring peace and stability, and called for dialogue and prioritizing Sudan’s national interest while rejecting foreign interference.
Regarding Western Sahara, both sides committed to supporting the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy’s efforts to reach a just, durable, and final solution based on respect for the Sahrawi people’s will, according to relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions.
Moreovern the two Libyan ministers said that the crisis solution must come from an inclusive Libyan-led political process to strengthen national unity, preserve territorial integrity and sovereignty, end foreign interference, and organize free and transparent elections, leading to legitimate unified institutions.
At the end of the visit, Minister Ahmed Attaf thanked his Somali counterpart for accepting the invitation to visit Algeria. Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality.
