Somalia Declares C6+ Framework Obsolete, Urges Shift Toward Sovereign Partnerships

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia has formally declared the C6+ coordination framework outdated and no longer relevant to the country’s current political landscape, calling instead for bilateral partnerships grounded in mutual respect and national ownership.

In a letter addressed to James Swan, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Omar reaffirmed Somalia’s transition from a post-conflict state to a sovereign nation with stable institutions and a maturing democracy.

“The C6+ framework was created during a period of fragility and transition,” Minister Omar stated. “That context has fundamentally changed. Somalia is no longer in transition, it is a sovereign state with functioning constitutional institutions and a comprehensive reform agenda.”

Originally established in the aftermath of Somalia’s 2010 crisis, the C6+ platform facilitated informal coordination between Somalia and key international partners.

However, Somali officials now argue that its continued reference in diplomatic discourse falsely suggests external oversight of the country’s political processes, undermining its sovereignty and institutional legitimacy.

“The continuation of the C6+ is both outdated and counterproductive,” the letter reads, warning that its use may erode confidence in Somalia’s self-governance. The government urged international partners to align future cooperation through recognized diplomatic and bilateral channels.

While Somalia reaffirmed its commitment to “constructive partnerships” with all C6+ member states, the government emphasized that future engagement must reflect the country’s evolving political maturity and on-the-ground realities.

This move aligns with the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, which has prioritized institutional reform, national cohesion, and diplomatic recalibration as central to its governance vision.

The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed confidence that international missions will respect the shift and collaborate through frameworks that uphold Somalia’s sovereignty and shared goals.