EU and Somalia Reaffirm Strategic Partnership during Europe Day Celebrations in Mogadishu

First EU-Somalia Partnership Dialogue under the Samoa Agreement

In the morning, the European Union and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) held their first Partnership Dialogue under Article 3 of the Samoa Agreement at the European Union Diplomatic Compound (EUDC). Held under the theme "A Sustainable and Mutually Beneficial Partnership", the dialogue reaffirmed shared interests and a joint commitment to strengthening cooperation across priority areas, including peace and security, governance, justice, migration and economic development. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a Joint Statement, marking an important step in further consolidating the EU-Somalia partnership framework.

The FGS delegation was led by Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Salah Ahmed Jama and included Ministers responsible for Defence, Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Internal Security, Finance, Planning, Investment and Economic Development, and Commerce and Industry and other government representatives. The European Union delegation was led by EU Ambassador to Somalia H.E. Francesca Di Mauro and included ambassadors and representatives of EU Member States from Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden, as well as the Mission Force Commander of the European Union Training Mission Somalia (EUTM-S) and the Head of Mission of the European Union Capacity Building Mission- Somalia (EUCAP-S).

© European Union, 2026

© European Union, 2026

© European Union, 2026

Europe Day Reception

In the afternoon, more than 150 guests attended the Europe Day reception, bringing together senior representatives of the Federal Government of Somalia, civil society, diplomatic partners and the international community. Prime Minister H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre joined Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro in reaffirming the strong and evolving partnership between the European Union and Somalia.

The programme featured cultural performances, an audiovisual presentation showcasing EU-Somalia cooperation, and thematic stands highlighting key areas of partnership. The winners of the inaugural #EU4SOM Photo Competition were also announced, recognising Somali photographers whose work captured stories of resilience, opportunity and progress. The celebration concluded with a ceremonial cake cutting and a networking reception bringing together partners from across Somalia's public institutions, civil society and the international community.

© European Union, 2026

© European Union, 2026

© European Union, 2026