By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Mogadishu, 20 September 2026 - Somalia and Pakistan have discussed strengthening cooperation in air defence, military training and the development of the Somali Air Force's capabilities.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and a senior delegation from the Pakistan Air Force, led by Air Marshal Muhammad Sarfraz, Commander of Air Defence and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff.
A statement issued by Villa Somalia said the meeting focused on accelerating the development of the Somali Air Force, improving the skills and professional capacity of its personnel and strengthening Somalia's ability to protect its airspace.
The meeting was attended by Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Somali National Army Commander Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud and Somali Air Force Commander Brigadier General Abdirizak Mohamud Haji.
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Cooperation between Somalia and Pakistan is expected to contribute to the training of pilots and officers, the development of technical expertise and the institutional strengthening of the Somali Air Force.
The two countries have previously discussed air force cooperation. In March 2020, senior officials from the Somali and Pakistani air forces met in Islamabad to discuss training and other support Pakistan could provide to the Somali Air Force.
The latest meeting reflects the Somali government's efforts to rebuild its air force and secure international cooperation to strengthen the country's air defence capabilities.