Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia and Serbia have taken a significant step towards deepening their bilateral relations with the signing of a new security cooperation agreement. The agreement, signed by Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartag), and Serbia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Security, Ivica Dačić, focuses on enhancing collaboration between the two countries in the areas of security and police training.
During a meeting in Belgrade, Minister Fartag emphasized that the agreement would mark a new chapter in Somalia-Serbia relations, particularly in the development and training of the Somali Security Forces. “This cooperation will significantly improve the training and capacity of our security forces and is an important step in strengthening the security infrastructure of Somalia,” Fartag said.
Minister Fartag also noted the longstanding relationship between the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Serbia, which has seen Serbia play a vital role in Somalia’s efforts to rebuild its security institutions over the years. “The cooperation agreement we signed today will further enhance our cooperation and ensure continued support for the development of Somalia’s security forces,” he added.
For his part, Minister Ivica Dačić described the agreement as a “historic step” in Serbia-Somalia relations. He reaffirmed Serbia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, especially in training the Somali Armed Forces and supporting the broader security sector. Serbia has been a key partner in Somalia’s efforts to build a more capable and professional national security force, contributing significantly to the training of Somali soldiers and police officers.
This agreement comes at a crucial time as Somalia prepares for the full withdrawal of African Union peacekeeping troops, under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). With the Somali National Army (SNA) beginning to take control of areas previously occupied by AU forces, the country is in the process of assuming full responsibility for its security. The new cooperation deal with Serbia will play a critical role in supporting the Somali government’s efforts to ensure security and stability in a post-ATMIS Somalia.
Serbia’s expertise in military and police training is seen as vital as Somalia transitions from relying on international peacekeepers to self-sufficiency in managing its security affairs. The cooperation agreement underscores the growing role that global partnerships, such as that with Serbia, will play in Somalia’s long-term stability and reconstruction efforts.
As Somalia moves forward with its security transition, the partnership with Serbia is expected to help strengthen the capacity of Somali security forces, enhancing their ability to address internal and external threats and contribute to national peace and stability.
