A special commemorative event was held in Islamabad to celebrate Somalia’s Independence Day, organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) in collaboration with PAIDAR and coordinated by the Embassy of Somalia in Islamabad. The occasion showcased the enduring historic bonds between Pakistan and Somalia, emphasizing joint efforts for peace, educational cooperation, trade opportunities, and Pakistan’s broader “Engage Africa” policy.
Prominent guests delivered speeches highlighting the longstanding bilateral fraternity. Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Additional Foreign Secretary Hamid Asghar Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Somalia Shahid Seehar, and Somalia’s Charge d’ Affaires Yasin Mire Mohamed underscored the deep-rooted historical relationship. They specifically mentioned Pakistan’s important role in promoting peace and stability in Somalia, particularly through United Nations peacekeeping missions.
The speakers also drew attention to mutual educational initiatives, trade potential, and avenues for broader collaboration that fall under Pakistan’s growing commitment towards Africa, formally expressed in the “Engage Africa” policy. They stressed the importance of further strengthening cooperation, especially in economics, education, diplomacy, and regional development initiatives.
Numerous African diplomats attended the event, along with senior Pakistani officials, leading academics, think-tank experts, prominent members of civil society and media, as well as students and representatives from the Somalian community based in Pakistan.
The celebration also featured a small exhibition arranged by the Somalian Mission, which presented a selection of traditional Somalian products, particularly food items. This served as an additional platform aimed at introducing and promoting Somalian culture and heritage among participants.
