By Zamzam Daqare. - Reporter
Italy, 12 September 2026 - Somalia's Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy Ahmed Hassan Aden on Saturday participated in a meeting in Rome focused on accelerating cooperation between Somalia and Italy to develop the fish production chain, according to the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy.
The meeting, held at Villa Agrippina and hosted by Assoittica Italia, an Italian organization working in the fisheries sector, brought together officials, experts and stakeholders from the fisheries industry.
The minister said cooperation between the two countries is moving from planning to implementation, noting that Somalia has a coastline of nearly 3,800 kilometres and vast marine resources that require sustainable management.
He highlighted challenges affecting the development of Somalia's fisheries sector, including illegal fishing, limited infrastructure and restricted market access.
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The meeting also discussed improving seafood production standards, food safety, product traceability, technical training and connecting Somali marine products to international markets.
The minister invited Italian companies and investors to contribute to building a modern fisheries value chain, saying Somalia needs partnerships based on expertise, technology and investment.
The meeting also highlighted the history of fisheries cooperation between Somalia and Italy, including the experience of SHIFCO, while emphasizing the importance of building a new sustainable partnership that benefits both sides.