Geneva — The Federal Republic of Somalia and the Russian Federation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the health sector, marking a new phase in collaboration between the two countries.
The agreement was signed in Geneva by Somalia’s Minister of Health and Social Care, Dr. Ali Haji Adam Abubakar, and Russia’s Deputy Minister of Health, Oleg Salagay, following a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of international health engagements in Switzerland.
According to officials, the MoU establishes a broad framework for cooperation focused on developing healthcare systems, strengthening the training and capacity of health professionals, and expanding the exchange of medical expertise and scientific research. The agreement also covers cooperation in the prevention and treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases, regulation of medicines and medical equipment, and the improvement of maternal, newborn, and child health services.
In addition, the partnership includes collaboration in digital health technologies, nuclear medicine, vaccination programs, and the promotion of medical tourism, areas seen as critical to modernizing healthcare delivery and improving access to specialized services.
During separate discussions after the signing ceremony, both ministers emphasized the importance of translating the agreement into practical actions. They stressed that effective implementation would be essential to ensure the partnership delivers tangible results and serves the mutual interests of both countries.
Somali officials said the agreement is expected to contribute to improving the quality of healthcare services in Somalia and strengthening the capacity of national health institutions, as the country continues efforts to rebuild and modernize its public health system. The MoU also reflects Somalia’s broader strategy of expanding international partnerships to support national development priorities in the health sector.
Somalia and Russia maintain longstanding ties dating back several decades, with cooperation spanning health, education, and technical fields. The new agreement adds to Somalia’s growing network of international health partnerships and underscores the government’s commitment to global cooperation in addressing public health challenges.
