By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Belgium, 22 November 2025 — Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali has reaffirmed the country's commitment to strengthen maritime security in its coastal waters to help safeguard vital sea lanes.
The Minister made the remarks at the 4th European Union Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum held in Brussels from 20 to 21 November.
The high-level forum brought together delegations from more than 60 countries to discuss global security challenges, regional stability, multilateral cooperation and the growing impact of climate change and geopolitical competition on the Indo-Pacific region.
The Minister highlighted Somalia’s strategic maritime position and its role in safeguarding vital sea lanes, noting the importance of coordinated efforts to maintain security and stability in regional waters.
“For Somalia, whose coastline forms one of the most strategic maritime frontiers in the region, these discussions speak directly to our national priorities.
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‘We are rebuilding our maritime capacity, reinforcing governance of our waters and deepening regional cooperation to secure vital trade routes,” Abdisalam told delegates.
He also underscored the need for collective action in addressing shared challenges, including illegal maritime activity, climate vulnerability and the security implications of intensified global power competition.
Minister Ali also addressed the forum’s ministerial session on Friday, where discussions centred on strengthening dialogue, promoting peaceful conflict resolution and enhancing cooperation in response to emerging global threats.
“Today’s discussion is taking place at a moment of profound geopolitical uncertainty as major power rivalries intensify. Global supply chains face new pressure, and maritime spaces are becoming increasingly contested,” he said, urging collective efforts in addressing the world's most pressing challenges.
The forum serves as a platform for dialogue between the European Union and Indo-Pacific partners on advancing political cooperation, economic connectivity and maritime governance, as well as reinforcing commitments to international law and regional stability.
