The Federal Government of Somalia and the European Union have today launched a Joint Operational Roadmap setting the path for a renewed focused engagement for the next two years. The Joint Operational Roadmap is the culmination of extensive high-level and technical exchanges between Mogadishu and Brussels throughout 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, lauded the joint elaboration and endorsement of an Operational Roadmap, stating: “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 further 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.”

On his part, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre applauded this historic milestone acknowledging the significance of these efforts to deepen the partnership between Somalia and the EU as he stated: ”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 Joint Operational Roadmap (annexed below) represents a concrete plan of action along the areas of focus as agreed between the Federal Government of Somalia and the European Union for the upcoming 24 months. It is centered around Inclusive Politics and Democratisation, Security and Stabilisation and Socio-economic Growth.

Background

The launching event took place at Villa Somalia and was presided by the Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, and the EU Ambassador to Somalia, Tiina Intelmann. Distinguished Members of the Cabinet, senior government officials and representatives from the diplomatic corps were also present. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abshir Omar Jama, delivered a statement on behalf of the Somali government while the EU Special Representative (EUSR) for the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, delivered a statement on behalf of the EU.

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Joint Operational Roadmap