Somalia and Algeria Reaffirm Support for Palestine and Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation

Somalia and Algeria have reaffirmed support for an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds al-Sharif as its capital. Presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Abdelmadjid Tebboune also backed Sudan’s sovereignty, called for peaceful, citizen-led solutions in Sudan, Libya, and Western Sahara, and rejected foreign interference. The two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in sectors including agriculture, fisheries, education, and energy, while Algeria will host Somali students and provide scholarships in key fields

Somalia and Algeria have once again reaffirmed their strong solidarity with the Palestinian people, highlighting their unwavering support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Both nations emphasized that this state should be created within the internationally recognized 1967 borders, with Al-Quds al-Sharif serving as its capital—a city of profound religious, cultural, and political significance to Palestinians and the broader Arab world.

In a display of continued diplomatic engagement, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his Algerian counterpart, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, held high-level talks in Algiers on Tuesday. During these discussions, the two leaders not only reaffirmed their commitment to the Palestinian cause but also reiterated their strong support for Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, underlining the principle that no nation’s borders or autonomy should be compromised by external forces.

President Mohamud stated, “We have agreed to stand firmly and steadfastly with the people of Palestine in their pursuit of independence and the establishment of their own state, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital within the 1967 borders. This reflects our enduring commitment to justice, self-determination, and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.”

Expanding on the broader regional issues discussed, President Mohamud added, “We have addressed several pressing matters affecting the Arab world, including the situations in Libya, Sudan, and the Western Sahara. It is clear to us that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of these nations must be fully respected. These principles form the foundation of peace, stability, and cooperation across the region.”

The two leaders jointly called for peaceful and inclusive political solutions in Sudan, Libya, and Western Sahara—solutions that are led by the citizens of these countries themselves, without any form of foreign interference. Highlighting the detrimental effects of external meddling, President Tebboune stressed, “We have expressed our strong rejection of foreign interference, which has had serious consequences in Sudan and other regions. Such interference continues to worsen the situation, violating the principles, values, and political ethics that are central to the traditions of cooperation, solidarity, and mutual respect within the Arab world and Africa.”

In addition to regional political issues, Somalia and Algeria underscored their commitment to multilateralism, working together under the framework of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The two countries also aligned their collaboration with Somalia’s Vision 2060, which seeks to promote inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and regional integration, reflecting a shared vision of long-term stability and prosperity.

During the state visit, the two nations agreed to establish a joint ministerial committee. This committee will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of agreements, tracking progress, and identifying new areas for strategic partnership that can benefit both countries.

As part of the visit, Presidents Mohamud and Tebboune presided over the signing of several cooperation agreements spanning multiple sectors deemed critical for national development and bilateral growth. These agreements cover areas including livestock exports, agriculture, fisheries, education, oil and natural gas exploration, animal health, and the facilitation of diplomatic travel. Notably, under the newly agreed framework, holders of Somali diplomatic passports will be granted visas upon arrival in Algeria, reflecting a commitment to enhanced diplomatic mobility and cooperation.

Further strengthening educational collaboration, the education ministries of both nations signed a memorandum of understanding focusing on higher education initiatives. This agreement paves the way for expanded academic cooperation, knowledge exchange, and capacity building between Algerian and Somali institutions.

President Tebboune announced that Algeria will host 110 Somali students during the 2026–2027 academic year, providing them with opportunities to pursue higher education in a supportive and academically rigorous environment. In addition, he reaffirmed Algeria’s readiness to expand collaboration in crucial sectors such as energy, agriculture, fisheries, pharmaceuticals, and higher education, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable development and capacity building.

In response, President Mohamud expressed profound appreciation for Algeria’s enduring friendship and solidarity with Somalia. He described the visit as “a testament to the lasting bond between our two nations, highlighting our shared vision for peace, development, and self-reliance in Africa.”

The Somali president further extended his gratitude for Algeria’s generous offer of 500 university scholarships to Somali students in critical disciplines such as agriculture, fisheries, and petroleum engineering. These fields have been identified as vital for Somalia’s national development, economic growth, and long-term self-sufficiency, underscoring the practical impact of the bilateral cooperation agreements.

The meeting between Presidents Mohamud and Tebboune demonstrates not only the strong diplomatic and political ties between Somalia and Algeria but also a shared commitment to supporting regional stability, promoting sustainable development, and fostering educational and economic opportunities that will benefit generations to come.