Somalia, EU Agree To Deepen Security Support and Force Development

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and the European Union have agreed to step up military cooperation, with a focus on strengthening the Somali National Army and sustaining international support for ongoing security operations.

The agreement was reached during talks between Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and the chair of the European Union Military Committee, General Seán Clancy, who is visiting Mogadishu.

The discussions resulted in a shared commitment to expand EU-backed training programmes, maintain logistical and technical assistance, and support Somalia’s efforts to build a self-reliant national defence force capable of taking on greater security responsibilities.

The meeting also reaffirmed continued European Union backing for the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which plays a central role in stabilisation efforts as Somalia works toward a gradual security transition.

Somali authorities said the outcome of the talks would strengthen operational readiness, improve coordination with international partners and accelerate progress toward long-term security and state-building goals.

The meeting was attended by Somali National Army chief General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh, European Union Ambassador to Somalia Francesca Di Mauro, and senior officials from both sides.