Somalia Reaffirms Commitment to Migration Cooperation at Khartoum Process Conference

GOOBJOOG NEWS | CAIRO: Somalia pledged to deepen its commitment to international migration cooperation during a high-level ministerial conference in Cairo on Wednesday, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat human trafficking, protect migrants, and address the root causes of irregular migration.

Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi delivered Somalia’s remarks at the Second Ministerial Conference of the Khartoum Process, a forum that brings together nearly 50 countries from Europe and the Horn of Africa to strengthen migration governance and security.

“The Khartoum Process has remained a cornerstone of regional dialogue and action,” Fiqi said, applauding Egypt’s leadership as current chair. “Somalia is proud to stand alongside our partners in promoting safe, orderly, and dignified migration.”

Since 2021, Somalia has played a key role in maintaining the Process’s momentum, stepping in to temporarily fill Sudan’s seat on the Steering Committee during a period of political transition.

Fiqi welcomed Sudan’s return, describing Somalia’s interim role as an act of African solidarity and responsibility.

“We stood in to ensure continuity at a critical time. Today, we celebrate Sudan’s return to its place at the table,” he said.

Fiqi emphasized Somalia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic migration policies through inclusive, rights-based, and gender-sensitive frameworks. He called for enhanced regional cooperation on migrant return and reintegration, and the dismantling of smuggling and trafficking networks.

“The challenges we face demand not only coordination but compassion,” he said. “Our shared response must place people at the center, migrants, families, and communities.”

The Minister also voiced strong support for the Cairo Action Plan and expressed confidence in France’s upcoming Chairmanship. He praised Egypt’s stewardship and thanked the European Commission, African Union Commission, and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) for sustained support.

“Somalia remains committed to this partnership, not only as a beneficiary, but as a contributor to solutions,” Fiqi said.

The Khartoum Process, established in 2014, continues to serve as a key platform for cooperation between Europe and the Horn of Africa on migration and mobility.