Somalia and Kenya Discuss Mutual Respect for National Sovereignty

By A Yusuf 

Changsha, China, June 10, 2025-The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali (Dhaay), held a bilateral meeting with Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi, on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), currently taking place in Changsha, China.

During the meeting, Minister Abdisalam reaffirmed Somalia’s strong commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Kenya. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect for national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In response, Minister Mudavadi reiterated Kenya’s unwavering support for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, in line with regional and international principles. He also underscored Kenya’s dedication to good neighborliness and to promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

Both ministers agreed to expedite the meetings of the Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) to accelerate the implementation of pending agreements and to enhance cooperation in key sectors such as trade, education, infrastructure development, and security.

Minister Abdisalam concluded by expressing gratitude to the Government of Kenya for its significant role in supporting peace and stability in Somalia, particularly highlighting Kenya’s long-standing contribution to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which has been involved in peacebuilding efforts in Somalia for over 25 years.

Since the collapse of Somalia’s former central government, neighboring countries have interfered in Somalia’s internal affairs.