Somalia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mahamud Ahmed Adam Gaisud, held a high-level meeting with Algeria’s Minister of Trade and Regulation of the National Market, Tayeb Zitouni, on the sidelines of the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) taking place in Algiers from September 4 to 10.
During the talks, both ministers emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral relations and opening new avenues for economic and trade cooperation that serve the mutual interests of Somalia and Algeria.
The discussions highlighted the need to expand partnerships in shared priority sectors, particularly in trade exchange, industrial expertise, and technology transfer.
New Expansion for Economic Opportunities
Minister Gaisud stressed that the meeting was part of Somalia’s wider strategy to strengthen its economic integration regionally and internationally, while diversifying trade opportunities for Somali products.
He noted that Somalia aims to boost its export capacity, improve trade performance, and attract investment through partnerships with countries like Algeria.
On his part, Minister Zitouni reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to developing economic cooperation with African nations, highlighting Intra-African Trade Fair as a key platform for connecting businesses, building investment opportunities, and advancing regional integration.
He added that enhancing intra-African trade not only supports national economies but also generates jobs for youth in both Somalia and Algeria.
Relations in Focus: Somalia–Algeria
Beyond this meeting, Somalia and Algeria share a long history of solidarity and cooperation rooted in pan-African and Arab League frameworks.
Algeria has traditionally supported Somalia in political and humanitarian forums, while Somalia views Algeria as a strategic partner in North Africa with shared interests in economic development, trade, and security cooperation.
In recent years, both nations have worked toward strengthening ties through:
- Economic diplomacy – Encouraging trade agreements and investment partnerships.
- Education and training – Exploring opportunities for academic and technical exchange programs.
- Security cooperation – Maintaining dialogue on counterterrorism and regional stability within African Union and Arab League structures.
Broader Efforts:
The two ministers agreed to maintain regular follow-ups on joint projects, while also encouraging future visits of economic and trade delegations between Mogadishu and Algiers.
This step is expected to expand investment opportunities, foster knowledge exchange, and contribute to long-term sustainable development in both countries.
The meeting also fits into broader efforts to strengthen African economic integration, with Somalia and Algeria positioning themselves as active players in advancing trade, stability, and cooperation across the continent.
