India and Somalia held their first round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Mogadishu on November 15, reviewing the full range of bilateral relations and identifying areas for stronger cooperation.
The Indian delegation was led by Suresh Kumar M., Joint Secretary (West Asia and North Africa) in India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Somali delegation was headed by Hamza Adan Haadoow, Permanent Secretary in Somalia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
India and Somalia held their first Foreign Office Consultations on November 15, 2026, in Mogadishu.
Suresh Kumar M. and Hamza Adan Haadoow led their respective delegations.
Discussions covered trade, investment, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence and development cooperation.
Maritime piracy, ship hijacking and seafarer safety were important discussion points.
Both countries condemned terrorism and discussed regional and international developments.
A bilateral MoU establishing a regular consultation mechanism was signed on November 14.
The discussions covered trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), development partnership, defence, security, consular matters, cultural exchanges and people-to-people relations.
Maritime security was among the key issues discussed. Both sides expressed concern over increased ship hijacking and piracy incidents in the region and stressed the need for effective measures to protect vessels and ensure the safety of seafarers.
The two countries also strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest and appreciated their close coordination and cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral forums.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The consultations establish a formal mechanism for India and Somalia to regularly review bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation. Discussions on maritime security are particularly important for protecting commercial shipping routes and seafarers in the region.
The consultations followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two foreign ministries on November 14 in Mogadishu. The agreement established a structured mechanism for regular consultations and reviews of bilateral relations.
According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, India and Somalia share longstanding and friendly relations. India is among Somalia's top three trading partners and an important development partner. It is also a preferred destination for Somali nationals seeking medical treatment and higher education.
Both countries agreed to hold the next round of Foreign Office Consultations in India on a mutually convenient date.
