In a landmark move, Pakistan and Somalia have agreed to lift visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, strengthening bilateral ties and easing travel for government officials.
The agreement was finalized during a high-level meeting between Pakistan’s President Asif Zardari and Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yusuf. Both leaders discussed multiple areas of cooperation, including:
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Strengthening bilateral relations
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Expanding law enforcement and criminal justice collaboration
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Joint efforts against drug smuggling and organized crime
Significance of the Agreement
The signed agreement allows Pakistani diplomatic passport holders to travel to Somalia without a visa, marking a significant step in diplomatic cooperation. The deal was formalized by Hamza Aden, Secretary of Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Pakistan’s Special Secretary of Interior.
President Zardari emphasized the strategic importance of Africa and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to closer relations with Somalia.
Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yusuf recognized Pakistan as a reliable partner since Somalia’s independence and paid tribute to Pakistani forces deployed with UN missions in Somalia.
A Historic Visit After 35 Years
This meeting represented the first official bilateral visit in 35 years, laying a strong foundation for future collaboration in multiple sectors and reinforcing the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
The agreement is expected to facilitate smoother diplomatic travel, enhance bilateral projects, and improve coordination in security and governance.
