ISLAMABAD, Aug. 7 – Pakistan’s army chief, General Asim Munir, pledged continued support for Somalia’s security sector during talks with Somali Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, as Mogadishu prepares to assume greater responsibility for the country’s security.
Fiqi, leading a high-level delegation, visited the Pakistan Army’s General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, where discussions focused on defence cooperation, the security situation in the Horn of Africa and efforts to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Somali armed forces.
Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to assisting Somalia in rebuilding and professionalising its security institutions through military training, capacity building and support for efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability.
The talks come as Somalia seeks to strengthen its national security forces ahead of taking full responsibility for the country’s security, following the gradual transition from international peacekeeping support.
Fiqi thanked Pakistan for its continued assistance, describing stronger defence ties between the two countries as vital to Somalia’s long-term security and stability.
During the visit, the Somali minister also held separate meetings with Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed.
The meetings covered military training, defence cooperation, maritime security and institutional capacity building for Somalia’s security forces. Pakistani military leaders reiterated their commitment to expanding cooperation, particularly in training and developing Somalia’s armed forces.
The visit reflects growing security ties between Islamabad and Mogadishu, with both countries planning closer collaboration in military training, border management, disaster response and counterterrorism efforts against Al-Shabaab.
