Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Abdinur Dahir Fidow, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Somalia to Azerbaijan, on April 14, APA reports. The ambassador presented his credentials to the head of state, and President Aliyev engaged in a conversation with him.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Ambassador Abdinur Dahir Fidow expressed his gratitude for the reception and conveyed greetings from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia. President Aliyev reciprocated by sending his greetings to the Somali President and recalled the official visit of the President of Somalia to Azerbaijan last year, which marked a new chapter in the friendly relations between the two nations. During that visit, several agreements were signed to foster bilateral cooperation.
President Aliyev highlighted the strong political relations between Azerbaijan and Somalia and stressed the importance of boosting economic collaboration. He wished Ambassador Fidow success in his new role and expressed hope for further development of ties between the countries.
Ambassador Fidow expressed his satisfaction with his appointment and pledged to work hard to enhance the relationship between Somalia and Azerbaijan. Both sides commended the successful cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats, including within international organizations, and emphasized the significance of high-level contacts and reciprocal visits.
The meeting also underscored the potential for expanding cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, and other sectors. It was noted that efforts are underway to implement the 'ASAN Khidmet' model in Somalia, following the agreement signed during the Somali President's visit to Azerbaijan.
Discussions also touched upon cooperation in science and education. The tradition of Somali students studying in Azerbaijan, dating back to the Soviet era, continues today under the Heydar Aliyev Scholarship program. Both parties exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest, reinforcing the commitment to strengthening their bilateral relationship.