The governments of Somalia and India held talks in Mogadishu regarding the strengthening of cooperation in the areas of defense, maritime security, and counter-terrorism, with both sides exploring opportunities to expand their security and military ties.
Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, received a high-level delegation from the Indian government at his office, led by Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs responsible for Consular, Passport, Visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs.
The discussions focused on strengthening relations and cooperation between the two nations, particularly in the defense and security sectors. Furthermore, both sides addressed the regional security situation and explored ways to enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, stated in a post on the platform X that the meeting was part of efforts to bolster defense relations between Somalia and India.
The Indian delegation was also accompanied at the meeting by India’s Ambassador to Somalia, Dr. Adarsh Swaika and other officials from both governments—including the Permanent Secretary of the Somali Ministry of Defence, Yusuf Ali Mohamed—were present.
Sripriya Ranganathan’s visit to Mogadishu marks the first high-level visit by an Indian official to Somalia in several years. During her stay in the capital, she is expected to hold meetings with senior Somali government officials, focusing on diplomatic cooperation, consular services, development initiatives, and new opportunities for bilateral relations.
Somalia and India established formal diplomatic ties in 1960, following Somalia’s independence. India closed its embassy in Mogadishu in 1991 after the outbreak of the civil war; however, the two nations maintained their relationship, particularly in areas such as development aid, training, and maritime security cooperation.
These discussions come at a time when Somalia is striving to strengthen its security and defence institutions—specifically regarding the protection of the country’s extensive coastline and the addressing of regional security threats.