By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Mogadishu (Dawan) July 19, 2026 - Somalia’s Institute of Diplomatic Studies has launched a month-long training programme for 40 government officials on diplomacy, international relations and foreign policy, as the Foreign Ministry steps up efforts to strengthen the country’s diplomatic capacity.
Article:Somalia’s Institute of Diplomatic Studies (IDS) has launched a month-long professional training programme on diplomacy and international relations, bringing together government officials to strengthen the country’s diplomatic capacity and enhance public sector expertise in foreign affairs.
The programme, organised by the Institute under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, brings together 40 participants drawn from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), and other government ministries and institutions.
During the four-week course, participants will receive intensive training in the foundations of diplomacy, diplomatic protocol and etiquette, international relations, and Somalia’s foreign policy and its guiding principles.
The programme was officially inaugurated by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hassan Mohamed Ali and the Director of the Institute of Diplomatic Studies, Mohamed Gure.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Foreign Minister said strengthening the professional skills of public officials was essential to advancing Somalia’s diplomatic engagement and protecting the country’s national interests.
“A strong foreign policy begins with well-trained professionals. By investing in the knowledge and skills of our public servants, we are investing in Somalia’s voice, credibility and influence on the international stage,” the Deputy Minister said.
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Mohamed Gure, Director of the Institute of Diplomatic Studies, said the programme was designed to bridge theory and practice by equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to represent Somalia effectively in an increasingly complex international environment.
“Diplomacy today demands more than negotiation. It requires strategic thinking, cultural understanding, professionalism and the ability to build lasting partnerships. This programme is preparing a new generation of public officials to represent Somalia with confidence, competence and integrity wherever they serve,” Gure said.
The organisers say the initiative reflects the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ continued commitment to institutional capacity-building and professional development as Somalia expands its diplomatic engagement and strengthens cooperation with regional and international partners.