Pakistan, Somalia Agree on Joint Strategy Against Terrorism and Extremism

Islamabad: Somalia’s Minister of Interior Ali Yusuf, during his visit to Pakistan, met Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and agreed on adopting a joint strategy to combat terrorism and extremism.

Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the Somali interior minister and his high-level delegation on their arrival at the Ministry of Interior. During the meeting, both sides discussed bilateral relations and avenues for enhancing mutual cooperation between Pakistan and Somalia.

The two interior ministers agreed to strengthen collaboration in the areas of training, border management, and disaster management. They also decided to further enhance cooperation in internal security, counterterrorism, and overall security matters, while improving coordination in sectors of mutual interest.

Somali Interior Minister Ali Yusuf expressed his country’s desire to benefit from Pakistan’s experience, particularly in policing and counterterrorism. In response, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured full cooperation in police training and counterterrorism efforts.

Ali Yusuf praised Mohsin Naqvi’s initiatives for infrastructure development in Islamabad, saying Somalia is facing a difficult situation and is actively fighting terrorism. He expressed hope that the visit would further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan fully understands the challenges faced by Somalia and will extend full support in counterterrorism and other sectors. He also announced that visa facilities would be provided to Somali citizens traveling to Pakistan for medical treatment and education.

During the meeting, the Somali interior minister conveyed a special message from the Prime Minister of Somalia to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and formally invited Mohsin Naqvi to visit Somalia.

The Somali delegation included Sheikh Noor Muhammad, Hassan Hamza Aden, Osman Abdullahi, Adil Abdi, and Asma Hagi. Pakistan’s delegation included Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Interior Secretary, Additional Interior Secretary, Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Islamabad, Director General FIA, and other senior officials.