Somalia and Spain Discuss Fisheries Cooperation During Doha Security Forum, Spain Eyes Tuna Fishing in Somali Waters
On October 22, 2026, Somalia's Foreign Minister and Spain's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Foreign and Global Affairs met during the Global Security Forum in Doha, with fisheries cooperation as the focus. Spain, which has one of Europe's largest fishing fleets, is interested in tuna fishing off the Somali coast; Somalia has made fisheries development a priority of its economic policy.
On October 22, 2026, Somali Foreign Minister Ali Mohamed Omar and Spain's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Foreign and Global Affairs Diego Martínez Belío met during the Global Security Forum held in Doha, Qatar, where they discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in the fisheries sector.
According to foreign media reports, fisheries was a key topic at the talks. Somali authorities regard fisheries development as one of the priorities of the country's economic policy. Spain has one of Europe's largest fishing fleets and has shown interest in fishing operations off the Somali coast, with tuna fishing as its primary focus.
The two sides plan to work together to help Somalia obtain modern technology, organize professional training and attract investment. Foreign media noted that companies from the two countries already have experience of cooperation.
Beyond fisheries, Somalia and Spain also cooperate on debt treatment and maritime security. In July 2026, the two countries signed an agreement on reducing and converting Somalia's debt. In addition, the two countries have held joint exercises within the framework of the EU's Atalanta naval operation against piracy.