The Federal Government of Somalia and the European Union have launched a Joint Operational Roadmap to deepen their partnership and set the path for a renewed focused engagement for the next two years.
The launching event took place at Villa Somalia and was attended by the Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, and the EU Ambassador to Somalia, Tiina Intelmann. Members of the Cabinet, senior government officials and representatives from the diplomatic corps were also present.
The Joint Operational Roadmap is the culmination of extensive high-level and technical exchanges between Mogadishu and Brussels over the past months, including the Somalia-EU Political Dialogue held on March 06, 2023.
The High Representative/Vice-President of the European Union, Josep Borrell Fontelles, commended an Operational Roadmap’s joint elaboration and endorsement.
“The EU and Somalia are long-term partners, and this truly inclusive process in defining joint priorities is an example of a successful partnership.”
He also stated: “I want to commend the Federal Government’s serious efforts and progress in building peace and development in Somalia benefitting the Somali population. The strategy and successful ongoing operations to fight al-Shabaab are remarkable. Together, the EU and Somalia are promoting sustainable peace, security and development along the principles of the international rules-based order.”
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre described the Joint Operational Roadmap as a historic milestone that deepens the partnership between Somalia and the EU.
” The operational framework launched today setting the path for a renewed focused engagement is a testament to our dedication to utilizing our partnerships to deliver tangible benefits that touch the lives and livelihoods of ordinary citizens. The EU has been a reliable friend and a close partner, and I am certain, that this Joint Operational Roadmap will enable more progress in the critical areas of state-building, peace and security, economic development and service delivery,” the Barre added.
The European Union underlined that the Joint Operational Roadmap represents a concrete plan of action along the areas of focus agreed between the Federal Government of Somalia and the European Union for the upcoming 24 months. It is centred around Inclusive Politics and Democratisation, Security and Stabilisation and Socio-economic Growth
