Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Ivica Dačić and Somali Minister of Internal Security Abdulahi Sheik Ismael formalized the latest cooperation agreement
Belgrade, Serbia – Building on years of diplomatic rebuilding and mutual cooperation, Serbia and Somalia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance police collaboration and address shared security challenges.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations that were effectively suspended following the breakup of Yugoslavia and the Somali Civil War in 1991. Serbia first reestablished diplomatic connections by appointing its first ambassador to Somalia in 2015, with both countries subsequently working to develop ties across multiple sectors.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Ivica Dačić and Somali Minister of Internal Security Abdulahi Sheik Ismael formalized the latest cooperation agreement, which aims to bolster mutual support in preventing security threats and ensuring citizen safety.
The memorandum outlines several key provisions, including:
- Regular annual meetings between Serbian and Somali law enforcement officials
- Comprehensive training programs
- Systematic exchange of information and professional expertise
The current collaboration is already yielding tangible results. As of now, 25 Somali criminal investigators are participating in an intensive three-month training program in Serbia, focusing on crime prevention and counterterrorism strategies. This follows a previous training session last year that involved 60 Somali police officers.
The diplomatic relationship has steadily progressed, with Somalia reopening its embassy in Belgrade in 2021. Both countries have expressed interest in cooperation across various domains, including development, vocational training for youth, agriculture, science, and health sectors.
During a joint press conference, Dačić emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing contemporary security challenges. Minister Sheik Ismael reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the mutual respect between the two nations.
“We will always respect the territorial integrity and independence of our two countries, while adhering to international norms,” Sheik Ismael stated, also acknowledging Serbia’s consistent support for Somalia in international forums.
The memorandum represents a significant diplomatic and security partnership, demonstrating both countries’ commitment to rebuilding and strengthening international relations through collaborative approaches in law enforcement and global security.
