In a significant step towards bolstering bilateral relations and regional security, Somali Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, met with a high-level British delegation on May 8th in Mogadishu.
The UK delegation, led by Harriet Matthews, Director General for Africa and the Americas at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), discussed deepening cooperation between Somalia and UK in the areas of security, defense, counterterrorism, and capacity building for Somalia’s armed forces.
Somalia and UK: Defense and Security Cooperation
The meeting focused on strategic collaboration to enhance Somalia’s security infrastructure and empower its defense capabilities.
Both sides emphasized the importance of sustained partnership to address growing regional and internal threats, particularly from the al-Shabaab militant group, which remains a significant destabilizing force across Somalia.
Minister Fiqi expressed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening its security forces and reiterated the government’s ongoing reforms to modernize the military.
Harriet Matthews reaffirmed the UK’s continued support for Somalia, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two countries and the UK’s role in assisting Somalia’s journey toward peace and stability.
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Somalia and UK Joint Efforts Against Al-Shabaab
A major point of discussion was the ongoing military operations targeting al-Shabaab, an extremist group affiliated with al-Qaeda.
The Somali National Army (SNA), with international support, has launched several offensives aimed at reclaiming territories and disrupting the group’s operations.
The UK has been a key partner in these efforts.
Offering training, strategic guidance, and logistical support to Somali forces.
The meeting underscored the need for ongoing collaboration to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt their financing, and reduce their ability to operate freely within the region.
Role of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS/AUSSOM)
The dialogue also included an evaluation of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which plays a vital role in supporting Somali-led security initiatives.
As Somalia gradually assumes greater responsibility for national security, both parties discussed the transition strategy and the importance of a coordinated international approach.
The UK delegation reiterated its support for the transition plan and emphasized the need for sustained international backing to ensure a smooth handover from AU forces to Somali control, in line with the country’s long-term stability goals.
Continued UK Support for State Building
Minister Fiqi extended his gratitude to the United Kingdom for its unwavering support in strengthening Somalia’s state institutions and governance structures.
The UK has been instrumental in essential elements for a functioning and secure state, such as:
- Defense reform
- Police training
- Judicial development
Harriet Matthews affirmed the UK’s intention to remain a key ally in Somalia’s rebuilding efforts.
Pledging continued diplomatic, humanitarian, and developmental assistance to help the country achieve lasting peace.
