MOGADISHU – Somalia’s State Minister of Defense, Omar Ali Abdi, held a significant meeting on Wednesday with the European Union Ambassador to Somalia, Francesca Di Mauro, accompanied by a high-level delegation from the European Peace Facility (EPF).
The discussions focused on enhancing defense cooperation between Somalia and the European Union, with a special emphasis on ongoing support to Somalia’s security forces.
During the meeting, both parties reviewed the sustained and effective assistance provided by the EPF to the Somali National Army (SNA).
This support has been instrumental in the ongoing efforts to rebuild, train, and professionalize Somalia’s national military forces, contributing to greater stability and security within the country.
State Minister Omar Ali Abdi expressed deep appreciation for the EU’s continued commitment, highlighting that this partnership is crucial for Somalia’s broader security sector reform and institution-building initiatives.
He underscored the importance of international cooperation in helping Somalia overcome its security challenges and strengthen its defense capabilities.
Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro reaffirmed the European Union’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s peace and security agenda through the EPF, stressing that the partnership aims to ensure a sustainable and capable Somali National Army able to respond to internal and regional threats.
The meeting concluded with both sides reiterating their strong bilateral relationship and mutual commitment to advancing peace, security, and stability in Somalia.
They agreed to continue working closely to consolidate gains made in security sector development and to explore further avenues of cooperation.
