Pakistan and Somalia Deepen Ties as President Witness Diplomatic Visa-Free Agreement

Islamabad, January 24, 2026 — President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Somalia as he met Somali Interior Minister Mr Ali Yousuf and witnessed the signing of a landmark agreement abolishing visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports between the two countries.

The agreement was formally signed by Mr Hamza Adan Haadoow, Permanent Secretary of Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Mr Dawood Muhammad Baraech, Special Secretary at Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control.

During the meeting, President Zardari underscored the growing importance of Africa in the global geopolitical landscape, stating that Pakistan seeks to expand and deepen its engagement with African states, including Somalia. He described Somalia as a valued partner and emphasized Pakistan’s interest in enhanced cooperation across areas of mutual concern.

Mr Ali Yousuf, Minister of Interior of Somalia, handing over a letter from the President of Somalia to President Asif Ali Zardari, at Aiwan-e-Sadr. pic.twitter.com/uOzkDJXG9l

— Eagle Eye (@zarrar_11PK) January 24, 2026

The President was informed that the visit of the Somali Interior Minister marks the first official bilateral visit from Somalia to Pakistan in 35 years, a development described as a significant milestone in diplomatic relations.

President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional and international efforts against transnational crime and narcotics trafficking, while broader geopolitical developments and opportunities for bilateral cooperation were also discussed.

Somali Interior Minister Ali Yousuf expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Government of Pakistan, particularly the Ministry of Interior. He said he was visiting Pakistan on the invitation of Pakistan’s Interior Minister and conveyed greetings and goodwill from the Somali leadership and people.

The Somali minister also handed over a letter from the President of Somalia to President Zardari, reaffirming Somalia’s desire to further deepen bilateral ties. He described Pakistan as a reliable partner and brotherly country, recalling the sacrifices made by Pakistani peacekeepers during United Nations missions in Somalia in the 1990s, where Pakistani personnel lost their lives while serving under the UN flag.

Both sides exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in law enforcement and criminal justice, including the possibility of negotiating a bilateral extradition treaty. Discussions also covered legal frameworks governing extradition, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, and the potential transfer of sentenced persons.

Cooperation in counter-narcotics and organised crime was another key focus, with both sides agreeing to explore collaboration in intelligence and information sharing, capacity building, and training of law enforcement personnel.

The President was briefed that Pakistan has offered technical assistance through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in areas such as advanced identity management, civil registration, secure documentation systems, and training for the Somali police force.

Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Raza Naqvi and Minister of State Talal Chaudhry were also present during the meeting. The Somali delegation included Sheikhnur Mohamed Hassan, Ambassador of Somalia to Pakistan, and Osman Abdullahi, Deputy Police Chief.