Pakistan and Somalia Abolish Diplomatic Visa Requirement as President Zardari Strengthens Bilateral Ties

President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari met with Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yousuf in Islamabad, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation. During the meeting, both sides witnessed the signing of an agreement eliminating visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports between Pakistan and Somalia. The agreement was signed by Hamza Adan Haadoow, Permanent Secretary of Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Dawood Muhammad Baraech, Special Secretary of Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control.

President Zardari highlighted Africa’s strategic importance in the global geopolitical landscape and expressed Pakistan’s interest in deepening engagement with African states, including Somalia. The visit by Somalia’s Interior Minister marks the first bilateral official visit from Somalia to Pakistan in 35 years, underlining the significance of this renewed diplomatic engagement.

The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in law enforcement, criminal justice, and counter-narcotics operations. Both sides explored the feasibility of negotiating a bilateral extradition treaty, as well as frameworks for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters and the transfer of sentenced individuals. Collaboration against drug trafficking and organized crime, intelligence and information sharing, and capacity building and training of personnel were also key topics of discussion.

Additionally, President Zardari was informed of Pakistan’s offer of technical assistance from 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. The meeting reflected a shared commitment to strengthening security, legal, and institutional cooperation between Pakistan and Somalia while exploring broader opportunities for bilateral collaboration.