ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Somalia to Pakistan, Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim, has said that Pakistan and Somalia enjoy close bilateral relations adding that the longstanding and robust diplomatic relationship between the two nations continues to flourish.
During his visit to the WE News office in Islamabad, the Somalian Ambassador said that diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Somalia date back to December 1960, and they were further solidified when both nations became members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in 1969 as its founding members. He further underscored that the partnership between Pakistan and Somalia gained additional strength with the formation of the OIC, which provided a platform for collaborative efforts.
Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim emphasized the historical bond between the two countries, noting that Somalia established its embassy in Pakistan in 1976, signifying the depth of their diplomatic connection.
Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim said that Pakistan’s unwavering support for its Somali brothers is central to the strong relationship between Pakistan and Somalia. He commended Pakistan’s efforts in training the Somalian Army and providing essential security support to combat terrorism. He recalled Pakistan’s valuable assistance in helping Somalia combat terrorism, a shared struggle that has deepened their mutual understanding and cooperation. “We, on our part, are learning how to fight terrorism and will learn from Pakistan’s experience in fighting it,” the ambassador expressed.
Economic and Trade Relations Between Pakistan and Somalia
The economic front has been a cornerstone of the bilateral relations, with Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim noting the extensive business ties between the two nations. He said Somalia imports various items, including rice, cosmetics, medicines, and medical equipment, from Pakistan, with Karachi serving as a vital hub for trade activities. He mentioned that Karachi, the bustling metropolis of Pakistan, hosts a significant number of Somali citizens.
The Ambassador said that efforts to strengthen economic collaboration are ongoing, with plans to connect the chambers of commerce of both countries to further enhance bilateral trade. The Ambassador emphasized the potential benefits that Pakistan’s Gwadar Port could bring to trade expansion between the two nations.
Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim said education and cultural exchange have also played a pivotal role in fostering closer ties. Somalia has seen a growing number of its citizens arriving in Pakistan for education, he added. He said that nearly 2,000 Somali students are currently enrolled in various universities and educational institutes across Pakistan, demonstrating the importance of educational cooperation in building a brighter future.
Ambassador Shirwa Abdullahi Ibrahim praised the warmth and beauty of Pakistan and its people. Furthermore, he spoke of his personal experiences exploring Pakistan’s diverse landscapes, from its vibrant cities to the breathtaking northern areas. He expressed admiration for the natural beauty that Pakistan offers, underscoring the potential for increased tourism and people-to-people interactions between the two nations.
