Somalia, Saudi Arabia Pledge Stronger Cooperation on Investment and Development

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen economic and investment cooperation following talks between Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and Saudi Ambassador Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Muwallad, as Mogadishu seeks to attract more foreign investment and deepen ties with key Gulf partners.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting focused on expanding strategic relations between the two countries and exploring opportunities for greater cooperation in trade, investment and economic development.

The discussions come at a time when Somalia is increasingly looking to Gulf states to help finance infrastructure projects, create jobs and support economic growth following recent debt relief gains and ongoing efforts to rebuild state institutions.

Prime Minister Barre thanked Saudi Arabia for its continued support to Somalia, including humanitarian assistance and backing for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

For his part, Ambassador Al-Muwallad reaffirmed Riyadh’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Somalia and supporting the country’s development priorities, according to the statement.

While no specific agreements were announced, the talks underscored growing economic engagement between Mogadishu and Riyadh, with both sides signalling interest in expanding investment and commercial partnerships.

Saudi Arabia remains one of Somalia’s most important partners in the Gulf and a major market for Somali livestock exports, which account for a significant share of the country’s export earnings. Relations between the two countries have expanded in recent years through increased diplomatic engagement, development assistance and cooperation on regional security issues.

The meeting also comes as Gulf countries intensify their economic and strategic engagement across the Horn of Africa, a region viewed as increasingly important for trade, food security, maritime routes and investment opportunities.

For Somalia, attracting Gulf investment is seen as a key component of the government’s broader strategy to accelerate economic recovery, develop infrastructure and unlock the potential of sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, energy and logistics.