Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre has urged Somali nationals in the diaspora to forge robust economic partnerships to achieve sustainable economic growth.
Speaking at the International Somali Diaspora Conference in Doha, Qatar, Hamza insisted that these strategic alliances will bolster development in their home country.
He said this, should cut across all sectors, particularly in education, healthcare, insurance, and finance.
"Robust business partnerships are one of the most important ways to achieve economic growth. I urge you to forge strategic alliances that benefit sectors such as education, health, insurance, and investment to enhance the country's economic capacity," the Prime Minister said.
Hamza reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening trade relations with nations worldwide to revitalize the national economy.
He said that boosting production capacity and expanding markets for domestic goods are also crucial for economic stability.
The three-day diaspora conference was opened by Hamza and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi and spearheaded by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Balad, and the Somali Ambassador to Doha, Dr. Mohamed Sheikh Dodishe.
It brought together the Somali diaspora and government officials.
The conference themed ‘Harnessing the Power of Somali Diaspora for a Better and Prosperous Somalia’ also served as a crucial platform for Somalis from around the world to convene and deliberate on the future trajectory of both the diaspora and their homeland.
Somalia’s Foreign affairs and international cooperation minister Ahmed Fiqi, on his part praised the Somali diaspora for taking huge interest in the country's progress and development.
He affirmed that his ministry will work closely with the diaspora to grow a stronger partnership.
"Your continued involvement in the country's development is invaluable. Under my leadership, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to supporting the Somali diaspora and fostering a strong partnership," Fiqi said.
Qatar Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi commended the Somali diaspora for their resilience and adaptability, despite the many challenges they face.
He noted their ability to integrate into host communities while preserving their cultural heritage, even in the face of economic hardship.
The Minister reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to continued cooperation with the Somali government.
During the conference, empowering Somali youth through education and technology, and exploring the diaspora's pivotal role in national building, strategies for forging strategic partnerships to drive Somalia’s prosperity, harnessing the diaspora’s intellectual and entrepreneurial prowess for national development, and strengthening the bilateral relationship between Qatar and Somalia, were also discussed.