Dahir Fidow: Somalia, Azerbaijan - countries connecting different cultures, trade routes

Somalia views cooperation with Azerbaijan as a promising area based on mutual respect, collaboration, and shared opportunities, Somalia's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Abdinur Dahir Fidow, said at a conference in Baku for Africa Day 2026: "Rising Continent, Emerging Partnerships," Report informs.

According to him, there are currently three key factors facilitating rapprochement between Africa and Azerbaijan.

First, the international situation is changing, and Africa is increasingly seeking equal and balanced partnerships, the diplomat noted.

"Azerbaijan, as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, is becoming a natural partner for cooperation," he emphasized.

The ambassador also noted the strategic geographic location of Somalia and Azerbaijan.

"In many ways, Somalia and Azerbaijan are countries linking different cultures and trade routes," he stated. The diplomat cited shared values ​​and principles related to the protection of sovereignty and territorial integrity as the second factor.

"Azerbaijan has consistently defended its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the entire world has witnessed the restoration of its territorial unity. For Somalia, these principles have profound significance and are more than just political concepts," Fidow said.

The third factor is strengthening practical and institutional cooperation, he noted.

"New embassies are opening, business interactions are developing, and cooperation within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement, where Azerbaijan has demonstrated significant diplomatic leadership, is continuing," the ambassador noted.

He also emphasized that Somalia has successfully completed an important political stage and continues to work to ensure security, develop the national economy, and strengthen its statehood.

"As a state, we strive to build a partnership based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared opportunities," the diplomat added.