ISLAMABAD — In a strategic move to strengthen ties in the Horn of Africa, Pakistan and Somalia officially agreed on Friday to a comprehensive security cooperation framework. The agreement, signed during a high-level meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Somali counterpart Ali Yusuf, marks a new chapter in bilateral relations focused on counter-terrorism, border security, and regional stability.
Pakistan-Somalia Security Agreement
- Key Areas: Counter-terrorism, border management, and disaster response.
- Visa Updates: Immediate facilitation for Somalis seeking medical treatment and education in Pakistan.
- Diplomatic Support: Pakistan reaffirmed its unwavering support for Somalia’s territorial integrity.
- High-Level Presence: Attended by Talal Chaudhry (Minister of State) and DG FIA.
- Special Message: Minister Yusuf delivered a letter from the Somali PM to PM Shehbaz Sharif.
A Joint Front Against Terrorism
During the talks at the Ministry of Interior, both nations committed to a joint strategy against terrorism and extremism. Minister Ali Yusuf noted that Somalia is currently “actively fighting terrorists” and expressed a strong desire to adopt Pakistan’s proven policing models.
Pakistan and Somalia have signed an agreement abolishing Visa requirement for Diplomatic Passport Holders. President @AAliZardari witnessed the signing ceremony in Islamabad@MOIofficialGoP #News #RadioPakistan https://t.co/Bzq1zimHod pic.twitter.com/LzLKGJhGC1
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) January 24, 2026
Pakistan has pledged full support in training Somali police units and sharing intelligence frameworks developed during its own domestic counter-terrorism operations. This collaboration is seen as vital for Somalia as it looks to stabilize its internal security ahead of the 2026 program cycle.
New Visa Policy for Medical and Education
In a significant humanitarian gesture, Mohsin Naqvi announced that Pakistan will now provide visa facilitation for Somali citizens.
- Medical Visas: Streamlined processing for patients seeking advanced healthcare in Pakistan’s private and public hospitals.
- Education Visas: Simplified entry for Somali students enrolling in Pakistani universities, further strengthening people-to-people ties.
Infrastructure and Experience Sharing
Minister Yusuf commended Naqvi’s recent infrastructure developments in Islamabad, stating that Somalia intends to benefit from Pakistan’s experience in urban management and civil service reform. The meeting concluded with an official invitation for Mohsin Naqvi to visit Mogadishu to finalize the implementation of the security protocols.
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