(22-04-23) BELGRADE – The capitals of Somalia and Serbia, Mogadishu and Belgrade, are on the path to strengthening their historical ties, as announced by Ambassador Mohamed Abdullahi Ahmed of the Federal Government of Somalia and Mayor Aleksandar Šapić of Belgrade. The two officials met today to discuss the potential twinning of their respective cities and collaboration in urban planning and infrastructure development.
During the meeting, three main issues were discussed: the re-establishment of the sister city relationship between Mogadishu and Belgrade, an official study of the drainage system in Mogadishu by engineering experts, and strategies for managing urban congestion and improving public, emergency, and education transport in both cities.
Mayor Šapić emphasized the strong historical bond between Mogadishu and Belgrade, recalling past collaborations between leaders of the two cities, such as Ahmed Mahmoud Adde, Yusuf Ibrahim Ali, Osman Mohamed Jelle, and Hassan Abshir Fasax. Ambassador Ahmed delivered an official message from the Mayor of Mogadishu, Sheikh Yusuf Hussein Jimaale “Maddale,” expressing the desire to restore the traditional relationship between the two capitals.
The twinning of Mogadishu and Belgrade is expected to foster increased cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between the two cities, paving the way for collaborative projects and initiatives. The relationship between Somalia and Serbia has improved considerably since the re-opening of the Somali Embassy in Belgrade, with both countries emphasizing cooperation, mutual respect, and shared interests.
As Mogadishu and Belgrade move forward with their plans to become sister cities, it is evident that their shared history and commitment to collaboration will play a significant role in shaping their futures.
