India and Somalia have discussed ways to strengthen their bilateral defence cooperation, focusing on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and capacity building. The high-level meeting in Mogadishu was attended by India's External Affairs Ministry Secretary Sripriya Ranganathan and Somali Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. They also exchanged views on the evolving regional security environment.
The discussions were confirmed by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who said the talks aimed to strengthen defence ties between the two countries. Ranganathan's visit marked the first high-level bilateral visit from India to Somalia in recent years. The Indian High Commission in Nairobi, which is concurrently accredited to Somalia, said the visit would build on their longstanding and friendly ties.
During her stay, Ranganathan met senior Somali officials to review existing bilateral cooperation and explore new areas of partnership in diplomatic, consular, and developmental affairs. The visit comes as both countries seek to strengthen their engagement across several areas, including security and institutional capacity building. India and Somalia have longstanding maritime and commercial connections dating back centuries.
Formal diplomatic relations between India and Somalia were established in 1960, following Somalia's independence. India closed its resident diplomatic mission in Mogadishu in 1991 after the outbreak of civil war. However, New Delhi has continued its engagement with Somalia through development assistance, capacity-building programmes, and maritime security cooperation.
India and Somalia share a common goal of enhancing their security cooperation. The two countries have been working together to address regional security challenges. Their defence cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on the region.
Ranganathan's visit is part of India's efforts to strengthen its ties with Somalia. The visit has provided an opportunity for both countries to discuss their shared interests and explore new areas of cooperation. India has been actively engaging with Somalia in recent years.
Meanwhile, the High Commission of India in Nairobi launched an oral history podcast series titled The Bharat Connection: Living Memories, Shared History. The initiative aims to document the experiences and journeys of prominent members of the Indian-origin community in Kenya, highlighting the historical and cultural connections between India and Kenya.
Key points
- India and Somalia focus on maritime security and counter-terrorism cooperation
- The talks aimed to strengthen defence ties between the two countries
- Ranganathan's visit marked the first high-level bilateral visit from India to Somalia in recent years
