In a bustling day of diplomacy, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged with Somalia’s Foreign Minister Abdilsalam Ali in New Delhi on Friday. The duo explored avenues to amplify multilateral collaboration, touching upon trade, education, health, and more, as India solidifies its presence in Africa’s strategic Horn region.
Posting the meeting snapshot on X, Jaishankar noted the productive dialogue on bolstering ties in capacity building and consular services. This visit by Abdilsalam aligns with India’s growing diplomatic footprint, where New Delhi is positioning itself as a reliable partner for African nations grappling with security and developmental challenges.
The conversations come against the backdrop of the ongoing India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ conclave, drawing ministers from across the Middle East and Africa. Jaishankar’s packed schedule included a prior huddle with Libya’s Eltahir Salem Elbair, where discussions centered on energy, infrastructure, and Libya’s evolving scenario.
Jaishankar tweeted about the Libya meet: ‘Good talk on pushing cooperation in trade, infra, and energy sectors. Appreciated the update on Libya and reiterated India’s push for diplomatic solutions to ensure regional peace.’ The MEA’s social media welcome for both ministers emphasized the momentum these interactions bring to bilateral relations.
These engagements highlight India’s multifaceted foreign policy, blending economic partnerships with a focus on stability. As global tensions simmer, such meetings pave the way for joint initiatives in health, education, and trade, promising mutual growth. India’s diplomatic activism in the Horn of Africa could reshape regional dynamics, fostering a network of cooperative alliances.
