The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development or IGAD welcomes Belgium’s government recent decision to recognise diplomatic and service passports issued by Somalia.
IGAD Executive Secretary Ambassador Mahboub Maalim says the move will significantly boost bilateral relations between Somalia and Belgium.
He adds that it will also facilitate Somalis government officials to engage with European Union institutions based in Brussels.
Ambassador Maalim describes the step as positive and a demonstration of a growing confidence by the international community in Somalia and its institutions.
He hopes that Belgium will extend this recognition to ordinary passport of Somalia.
He also encourages other remaining countries to recognise passport issued by the government of Somalia and facilitate favourable visa processing for its nationals.