Rome – Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, who is on an official visit to Italy, held a high-level meeting with his Italian counterpart, Guido Crosetto, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence and security.

The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between the two nations in key areas, including maritime security, the rebuilding and professionalization of the Somali National Army (SNA), and the ongoing fight against the Al-Shabaab militant group.

Both ministers also addressed the issue of funding for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the future of regional peacekeeping under the upcoming AUSSOM initiative.

Minister Fiqi expressed Somalia’s gratitude for Italy’s continued support in training Somali forces and assisting in counterterrorism operations.

The two sides reaffirmed the historic ties and close partnership between Somalia and Italy, emphasizing their shared commitment to promoting peace, stability, and security across the Horn of Africa region.