Tanzania and Somalia Strengthen Ties: A New Era of Cooperation
In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, Ambassador Stephen Mbundi, Permanent Secretary for East African Affairs, and H.E. Ilyas Ali Hassan, Somali Ambassador to Tanzania, held a pivotal meeting on May 12, 2025, at the Ministry’s offices in Dar es Salaam. The primary focus of the discussion was to expedite visa issuance for Somali citizens and implement recent agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the two nations.
The meeting marked a crucial step towards enhancing cooperation between Tanzania and Somalia, with a particular emphasis on facilitating travel for Somali nationals. The ambassadors explored the possibility of introducing visa-on-arrival for Somali citizens, with eligibility criteria being considered for officials holding diplomatic and service passports, as well as ordinary passport holders. Ambassador Mbundi assured his counterpart that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tanzania is treating this matter with utmost seriousness, given the shared membership of both countries in the East African Community.
The talks also highlighted the commitment of both leaders to strengthen cooperation across various sectors, including investment, trade, tourism, and knowledge exchange. These initiatives aim to improve the livelihoods of citizens in both countries and promote mutual prosperity. By fostering closer ties, Tanzania and Somalia are poised to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional development.
As the two nations move forward, their collaboration is expected to have a positive impact on the region, promoting peace, stability, and cooperation. The meeting between Ambassador Mbundi and Ambassador Hassan serves as a testament to the growing friendship between Tanzania and Somalia, and their shared vision for a more integrated and prosperous East Africa. With a renewed commitment to cooperation, the future of bilateral relations between these two African nations looks brighter than ever.
