Both sides exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in law enforcement and criminal justice
President Zardari addressing the World Summit for Social Development in Doha on November 4, 2025 Photo: Radio Pakistan
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari met with Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yousuf on Saturday and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral engagement.
He also witnessed the signing of an agreement abolishing visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports between Pakistan and Somalia, the Presidential Secretariat Media Wing said in a press release.
The agreement was signed by Hamza Adan Haadoow, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia and Dawood Muhammad Baraech, Special Secretary, Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control of Pakistan.
The President noted that Africa was an important part of the world’s geopolitical landscape and that Pakistan was trying to strengthen its ties with African states, including Somalia.
“Pakistan values its engagement with Somalia and supports closer cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” he added.
President Zardari was informed that this visit by the Somali Interior Minister was the first bilateral official visit from Somalia to Pakistan in the last 35 years.
The President emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to regional and international efforts against cross-border crime and drug trafficking.
A broader geopolitical situation and opportunities for bilateral cooperation also came up for discussion.
The Somali Interior Minister expressed his appreciation to the Government of Pakistan, particularly the Ministry of Interior, for the warm hospitality extended to him and his accompanying officials during the visit.
He said he was in Pakistan at the invitation of the Interior Minister of Pakistan and conveyed his thanks to the President and the people of Pakistan.
Ali Yousuf also handed over a letter from the President of Somalia to President Zardari, conveying greetings and good wishes and reaffirming the desire for deepening bilateral ties.
Describing Pakistan as a reliable partner and brother of Somalia since its independence, the Somali minister recalled the sacrifices made by Pakistani peacekeepers during UN missions in Somalia in the 1990s, when Pakistani personnel laid down their lives while serving under the UN flag.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in law enforcement and criminal justice.
