Posted by: Horseed Staff
Baku, April 14 — Bilateral relations between Somalia and Azerbaijan received a further boost on Tuesday as Ilham Aliyev formally received the credentials of Somalia’s newly appointed ambassador, Abdinur Dahir Fidow, during an official ceremony in Baku.
Ambassador Fidow, who assumes the role of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Somalia to Azerbaijan, conveyed greetings from Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. President Aliyev welcomed the message and asked that his own greetings be extended in return.
During the meeting, President Aliyev recalled the Somali president’s official visit to Azerbaijan last year, describing it as a significant milestone in advancing bilateral relations. He noted that the visit resulted in productive discussions and the signing of agreements aimed at broadening cooperation across multiple sectors.
The Azerbaijani leader underscored the importance of strengthening both political and economic ties, emphasizing the need to expand collaboration in key areas. He also wished Ambassador Fidow success in his diplomatic mission.
Ambassador Fidow expressed gratitude for his appointment and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with Azerbaijan. He pledged to work toward expanding bilateral cooperation and building on recent diplomatic progress.
Both sides highlighted growing engagement in bilateral and multilateral frameworks, including within international organizations. They stressed the importance of increasing high-level exchanges to sustain momentum in diplomatic relations.
Discussions also focused on opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade, economic development, education, and governance. Particular attention was given to the implementation of the “ASAN Khidmet” public service model in Somalia, following agreements reached during the Somali president’s visit.
The two parties further reviewed educational ties, recalling longstanding connections dating back to the Soviet era, when Somali students studied in Azerbaijan. It was noted that Somali students continue to benefit from the Heydar Aliyev Scholarship program.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.