ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has witnessed the signing ceremony of an agreement between Pakistan and Somalia for a grant of US$ 10.500 million and provision of technical assistance for the development of Somalia’s National Identification System.

The signing ceremony held at Prime Minister’s Office was attended by Minister for Finance Mr. Miftah Ismail, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Dr. Musadiq Malik, Secretaries of Finance and Interior Divisions, Chairman NADRA and senior officials.

The Somali side included Minister of State for Interior Mr. Abdullahi Farah Wehliye, Dr. Nur Derie Hersi, Head of ID project, Ambassador Khadija Mohamed Almakhzoumi, and their senior officials.

As part of the initiative, National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) will develop and supply technology, software, and equipment which will enable the Government of Somalia to have a state-of-the-art national data and citizen registration system.

The ‘knowledge and technology’ transfer would also help Somalia in Border Management and Elections Management system.

Speaking on the occasion, the Somalian State Minister for Interior Mr. Abdullahi Farah Wehliye thanked the Government of Pakistan for its assistance in the development of National ID System of Somalia.

Underscoring Pak-Somalia friendly relations, the State Minister said that opening of Pakistan’s Embassy in Mogadishu would further strengthen the friendly relations of the two countries.

Minister for Finance Dr. Miftah Ismail reciprocated the warm sentiments of the Somalian Minister and said that Pakistan values its ties with the Government and people of Somalia.

Pakistan and Somalia enjoy friendly and cordial relations. The signing of the NADRA contract is of a great significance and would help in further enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.

The project complements the Government’s “Look Africa” policy for enhanced engagement with the African continent.