In a move that reflects the strong ties between the two nations, Qatar has announced the signing of an investment deal under which it will help support the construction of a new port in central Somalia. 

The agreement forms a key building block in cooperation in maritime transport between Qatar and Somalia.

The construction of the 'Hobyo Port' will contribute to opening new horizons of cooperation between the two countries for the benefit of the two peoples, Qatar's Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) said in a statement.

His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti announced the investment partnership yesterday at a press conference in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu. 

Mwani Qatar Investing in Somalia’s Hobyo Port. Read more at: https://t.co/EqglLraxIa pic.twitter.com/zEYXNXpskL

— المواصلات والاتصالات (@MOTC_QA) August 20, 2019

The announcement was preceded by a meeting that brought together Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and the Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Ali Khayre.

HE Qatar's Foreign Minister, accompanied by HE the Minister of Transport, reviewed Qatar-Somalia ties and ways to enhance them in addition to other issues of common concern during the meeting with the Somalian premier.

After the meeting, HE Al Sulaiti together with the Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport of Somalia, Maryan Aweys Jama, announced the State of Qatar’s investment in the Hobyo Port to support the sisterly Republic of Somalia and bolster bilateral relations between the two nations.

According to Aweys Jama, the launch of the Hobyo Port construction project will create jobs for citizens and contribute to the Somalian economy.

Furthermore, MOTC said, the Hobyo Port will be designed and built according to the latest international standards and as well as the highest standards in safety and security.

The construction will be in a way that will bring many economic benefits for Somalia in terms of the investment returns and great business opportunities that the port will offer by enhancing the commercial relationship with new markets in Africa and access to international markets, in addition to providing maritime services to wider areas in Somalia, the statement adds.

The agreement has been signed under Mwani Qatar, which is responsible for managing the nation's seaports and shipping terminals.

Alongside its oversight of the country's quays, dry ports, and container terminals, Mwani Qatar provides navigation assistance and pilotage, towage, and Aids to Navigation (AtoNs) as well as loading, unloading, cargo handling, and storage. 

The Hobyo Port is an important Somali harbour due to its proximity to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the most important sea crossing points in the world. It is also important due to its location in the Mudug region, which links the south and north of the country.

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Source and Cover Image Credit: QNA