Somalia and Italy Strengthen Port Logistics Cooperation
The Forlis project connects Mogadishu and Trieste through technical training and maritime collaboration.
1Diplomatic Meeting on Logistics
Italian Ambassador Pier Mario Daccò Coppi met with Somali port authorities to review the Forlis project. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between the ports of Mogadishu and Trieste. The meeting included the Director of the Port of Mogadishu and Ministers of State for Public Works and Religious Affairs to discuss progress.
2The Forlis Project Framework
The Forlis project focuses on training and cooperation for port logistics and intermodal transport. It is supported by the autonomous region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and promoted by the association Anolf FVG. The program facilitates institutional dialogue between Italian and Somali entities to improve maritime infrastructure and operational standards in Somalia.
3Advanced Technical Training Program
Four young Somalis have been selected for a two-year advanced technical training program at the ITS Accademia Nautica dell’Adriatico in Trieste. This educational component is central to the Forlis project, aiming to provide professional growth opportunities. The Rawdah Youth Center in Mogadishu provided essential language training and orientation for these candidates.
4Strategic Importance of Trieste
Ambassador Coppi highlighted the strategic role of the Port of Trieste within European logistics. Its geographic location makes it a vital hub for maritime routes connecting India to Europe via the Middle East and Africa. This positioning underscores why Italy is prioritizing these specific institutional ties with Somali port authorities.
5Institutional Collaboration Goals
The Director of the Port of Mogadishu expressed strong appreciation for the Italian Embassy's commitment. He specifically thanked the Autonomous Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and its President, Massimiliano Fedriga, for their concrete support. The discussions included hopes for signing a formal memorandum of understanding to ensure long-term, stable institutional cooperation.
6Two Years of Dialogue
The current initiative is the result of a two-year process of dialogue and institutional collaboration. Anolf FVG President Ahmed Faghi Elmi emphasized that the project is designed to offer Somali youth tangible professional pathways. This preparatory model, implemented in Mogadishu, successfully bridged the gap for students entering advanced Italian technical training.
7Logistics and Intermodal Transport
The focus on intermodal transport reflects a broader effort to modernize Somali port operations. By integrating training with infrastructure development, the project addresses both human capital and technical capacity. This approach ensures that the collaboration is not merely symbolic but provides the necessary expertise to manage complex maritime logistics systems.
8Future Outlook and Impact
The partnership signifies a deepening of economic and educational ties between Italy and Somalia. By aligning the Port of Mogadishu with European standards through the Trieste hub, the project sets a foundation for future trade efficiency. Success will depend on the continued commitment to the proposed memorandum and sustained technical training.
Original article: ANSA English — Somalia and Italy Strengthen Port Logistics Cooperation