Islamabad, Pakistan – In a significant step to revitalize bilateral relations, President Asif Ali Zardari met with Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Mr. Ali Yousuf, on Thursday. The high-level talks marked the first official bilateral visit from Somalia to Pakistan in 35 years and culminated in the signing of a pivotal agreement to abolish visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Engagement
President Zardari warmly received the visiting delegation and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Somalia and the broader African continent. “Africa is an important part of the world’s geopolitical landscape,” the President stated, emphasizing Pakistan’s intent to strengthen ties with African nations, including Somalia, based on mutual respect and shared interests.
The landmark visa-waiver agreement was signed by Mr. Hamza Adan Haadoow, Permanent Secretary of Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Dawood Muhammad Baraech, Special Secretary of Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior. This move is expected to facilitate direct, high-level engagement and diplomacy between the two nations.
Strengthening Security and Legal Frameworks
A substantial portion of the discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in law enforcement, criminal justice, and counter-narcotics. Both sides:
- Explored the feasibility of negotiating a bilateral extradition treaty and discussed their respective legal frameworks.
- Considered initiating talks on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters and the transfer of sentenced persons.
- Discussed concrete collaboration against drug trafficking and organized crime, including information and intelligence sharing, as well as capacity building and training for personnel.
President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to regional and international efforts to combat transnational crime and narcotics trafficking.
Acknowledging Historical Bonds and Future Support
Minister Ali Yousuf conveyed heartfelt appreciation for Pakistan’s warm hospitality and extended a letter from the President of Somalia, carrying greetings and a desire for deepened ties. He lauded Pakistan as a “reliable partner and brother,” specifically recalling the sacrifices of Pakistani peacekeepers during UN missions in Somalia in the 1990s.
In a significant offer of technical support, Pakistan proposed assistance from its National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). This cooperation would span advanced identity management, civil registration, secure documentation systems, and specialized training for the Somali police force.
High-Level Participation
The meeting was attended by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and Minister of State, Mr. Talal Chaudhry. The Somali delegation included Ambassador Sheikhnur Mohamed Hassan and Deputy Police Chief Mr. Osman Abdullahi, underscoring the importance both nations place on this revitalized partnership.
BY: The Times Union
