Hassan Sheikh Says Somalia Has Reclaimed Global Influence Through Foreign Policy Overhaul
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud says Somalia has undergone a major foreign policy transformation over the past four years, arguing that the country has restored its diplomatic standing, strengthened international partnerships, and reclaimed its voice in regional and global affairs.
Speaking during the opening of the Eighth Session of the Federal Parliament, the President said his administration has worked to reposition Somalia on the global stage by strengthening diplomatic engagement, rebuilding strategic partnerships, and ensuring that the country's national interests are represented in international forums.
According to President Hassan Sheikh, the government's foreign policy reforms have marked a turning point in Somalia's international relations, reversing years in which the country had limited influence over decisions affecting its future.
"One of the greatest achievements of the past four years has been the transformation of the foreign policy of the Federal Republic of Somalia," the President said, describing diplomacy as a cornerstone of his administration's broader state-building agenda.
The President argued that Somalia has moved beyond a period when international actors largely discussed the country's affairs without meaningful Somali participation. He said the nation has instead become an active contributor to regional and global decision-making, reflecting what he described as a renewed confidence in Somalia's institutions and leadership.
"For many years, Somalia was a country that others spoke about, existing only in name and appearance. Today, Somalia has become a nation that speaks for itself," President Hassan Sheikh said.
He further recalled that, in previous years, key political and security decisions concerning Somalia were sometimes made outside the country without Somali representatives having a seat at the negotiating table. According to the President, that era has come to an end, with Somalia now directly participating in discussions that shape the Horn of Africa and wider international policies.
Free Newsletter · Every Week
Sign up to the Somali Report
Get independent reporting on Somalia, the Horn, and the diaspora — delivered to your inbox every Monday.
"There was a time when Somalia's destiny was decided beyond its borders while the country was absent—sometimes not even present at the table. Today, Somalia is actively involved in decisions that shape the region and the world," he added.
The remarks come as Somalia continues to expand its diplomatic engagement with regional organizations, neighboring countries, and international partners while seeking greater influence on issues relating to peace, security, economic cooperation, and regional integration.
During the past several years, the Federal Government has pursued a more active foreign policy, increasing high-level diplomatic visits and participating in multilateral forums aimed at strengthening Somalia's international profile. Government officials argue that these efforts have helped improve cooperation with key allies while reinforcing Somalia's position within regional institutions.
President Hassan Sheikh said his administration remains committed to protecting Somalia's sovereignty and national interests while deepening partnerships that support the country's long-term stability and development. He stressed that diplomacy will continue to play a central role in advancing Somalia's economic, political, and security objectives.
His comments come at a time when Somalia is navigating complex regional security challenges, constitutional reforms, and preparations for future elections, all of which require sustained cooperation with international partners.
As Parliament begins a new legislative session, the government is expected to continue promoting its foreign policy agenda alongside domestic priorities, presenting diplomatic engagement as a key component of Somalia's efforts to strengthen governance, attract investment, and expand its influence in regional and global affairs.
About the Author
Bashir Guhad is a reporter at Somali Report covering politics, security, business, and trade across the Somali region.