Somalia seeks Indian visa processing facility in Mogadishu as countries strengthen diplomatic ties

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia and India signed a memorandum of understanding on political consultations Saturday, aimed at strengthening diplomatic cooperation and expanding engagement between the two countries.

The agreement was signed by Somalia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hassan Mohamed Ali Nadaara, and Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) at India's Ministry of External Affairs.

advertisements According to Somalia's Foreign Ministry, the two officials reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between their countries and discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Somalia requested the establishment of an Indian visa processing facility in Mogadishu to improve access to consular services for Somali citizens seeking to travel to India.

The Somali delegation also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in medical tourism, as India remains a destination for Somalis seeking specialized medical treatment.

India congratulated Somalia on its membership of the United Nations Security Council, where the country is serving a two-year term from January 2025 through December 2026.

The memorandum provides a framework for political consultations between the two foreign ministries as Somalia and India seek to strengthen diplomatic engagement.

The Foreign Ministry did not provide details on when consultations would begin or whether India had agreed to establish a visa processing facility in Mogadishu.