Historical Relations
India's diplomatic relations with Somalia date back to 1961 when India established its embassy in the Somali capital, Mogadishu. This move marked a significant step in fostering bilateral ties, allowing for a platform for diplomatic dialogue and cooperation. However, following the onset of the Somali Civil War in 1991, the Indian embassy was closed due to the deteriorating security situation in the country. In response to this, the High Commission of India in Nairobi, Kenya, has been jointly accredited to Somalia, ensuring continued diplomatic engagement despite the challenging circumstances. Additionally, Somalia has maintained an embassy in New Delhi, illustrating a reciprocal commitment to bilateral relations.
High-level Engagements
The history of high-level visits between the two nations showcases a mutual interest in strengthening their ties. Somali Prime Minister Abdirashid Ali Shermarke's visit to India in 1963 was a pivotal moment, reinforced by his subsequent visit in 1968 when he served as president. These early engagements laid a foundation for cooperation. More recently, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's attendance at the 3rd India Africa Forum Summit in New Delhi in October 2015 further highlighted the importance of the relationship. During this visit, President Mohamud was conferred an Honorary Doctorate degree by Barkatullah University, symbolizing the respect and recognition shared between the countries. In addition to these prominent visits, various Somali officials have traveled to India, indicating an ongoing dialogue at multiple levels of governance.
Strategic Partnerships
India’s involvement in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), particularly during its tenure as a non-permanent member from 2011 to 2012, also underscores its commitment to peace and stability in Somalia. During this period, India took on the role of chair for the UNSC's Somalia-Eritrea Sanctions Committee, demonstrating its engagement in addressing issues pertinent to Somali security and regional stability. This involvement not only showcases India's willingness to support Somalia on the global stage but also reinforces the broader objective of enhancing security measures in the region.
Both countries have continually expressed the need to foster a multifaceted partnership that encompasses various sectors such as trade, education, and capacity building. As India seeks to expand its influence in Africa, Somalia represents a significant partner with its strategic location and resources. Through continued diplomatic engagement and high-level interactions, the prospect of a more robust and collaborative relationship between India and Somalia remains promising for the future.
India-Somalia Trade Relations
Trade relations between India and Somalia have historical roots that date back to ancient times, highlighting a long-standing connection between the two nations. The strategic location of Somalia along key maritime routes has made it a pivotal partner in trade for India, particularly for goods moving to and from the Horn of Africa. This relationship saw substantial growth in recent years, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive total of US$391.05 million in the fiscal year 2014-15. This figure represented a notable increase of 51% compared to the previous fiscal period, signaling a strengthening of economic ties.
In the 2014-15 fiscal year, India's exports to Somalia constituted a significant majority of this trade, amounting to $352.81 million. The exports included a variety of products such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural commodities, reflecting India's diversified manufacturing and industrial capabilities. Conversely, Somalia's imports to India stood at $38.25 million, which predominantly involved agricultural products and raw materials, showcasing the complementary nature of the two economies.
To further nurture this bilateral trade relationship, India has offered Somalia preferential trading arrangements since 2008. Under a unilateral duty-free tariff scheme, India provides Somalia access to its market for the export of goods and services. This initiative aims to enhance Somalia's economic development by enabling Somali businesses to engage more effectively in international trade, thereby positioning them to benefit from India's vast consumer market.
The growing economic relationship is not limited to trade alone. India and Somalia have also collaborated in various sectors including education, capacity building, and humanitarian assistance. This multifaceted engagement underscores India's commitment to supporting Somalia in its developmental objectives, particularly in the aftermath of prolonged instability and conflict. As trade continues to flourish, both nations are likely to explore further avenues for cooperation, which can lead to mutual growth and shared prosperity.
India's Humanitarian Efforts in Somalia
India has a long-standing history of providing humanitarian assistance to Somalia, showcasing its commitment to fostering bilateral relations. In 1961, India extended its support by sending significant amounts of medicines and clothing, addressing the pressing needs of the Somali people. This early initiative marked the beginning of India's engagement in humanitarian aid within the region. Later, in response to humanitarian crises, India distributed additional relief supplies worth ₹20 lakh, equivalent to ₹1.5 crore or approximately US$180,000 in 2023, in 1992. India has also made considerable contributions of food aid, including a notable donation of 100,000 tonnes of wheat to Somalia, Kenya, and Djibouti in 1985, which aimed to alleviate hunger in the Horn of Africa amidst food security challenges.
One of the key pillars of India's developmental assistance is the Pan African e-Network project, which India launched in Somalia on 16 August 2010. This flagship initiative is designed to enhance communication technology and healthcare services across Africa by leveraging modern information and communication technology. Beyond infrastructural support, India's financial commitment to regional stability is further exemplified by its donation of $2 million to the African Union Mission for Somalia (AMISOM) in May 2011, and an additional $1 million in March 2012. Such contributions underscore India's role as a responsible partner in promoting peace and stability in the region.
India’s commitment to the welfare of Somalia was further demonstrated in September 2011, when it provided $8 million to Somalia, Kenya, and Djibouti through the World Food Programme (WFP). This financial support played a critical role in addressing food insecurity during a time of crisis in these nations. Beyond direct aid, India has also invested in educational opportunities for Somali citizens, making them eligible for scholarships under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. This educational initiative reflects India's broader strategy of empowering individuals through skill development and knowledge sharing, contributing to Somalia's capacity building and long-term development.
Overall, India's approach to its relations with Somalia encompasses not only immediate humanitarian aid but also long-term developmental initiatives, fostering a collaborative partnership aimed at building a stable and prosperous future for the Somali people.
India's Commitment to Anti-Piracy Operations
India has been actively engaged in anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia since 2008, when the threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden became a significant concern for international maritime security. As a proactive member of the UN Contact Group on Piracy off the coast of Somalia, India recognized the necessity of ensuring safe navigation and the protection of commercial shipping lanes. This commitment led the Indian Navy to conduct regular patrols and protective missions, which included a major policy shift allowing the Navy to operate autonomously, unhindered by the need for prior governmental approval. This change in operational protocol showcased India's determination to respond swiftly to threats from pirate groups.
One notable incident that underscored India's decisive action in the face of piracy occurred on November 26, 2008, when a pirate "mother ship" initiated an attack on an Indian warship. The warship retaliated successfully, sinking the pirate vessel. Around this time, the Indian Navy's INS Tabar played a crucial role in preventing the hijacking of an Indian cargo ship, demonstrating its effectiveness in safeguarding maritime commerce. By the end of November 2008, INS Tabar had escorted over 35 vessels, reflecting India's active involvement in ensuring the security of not only Indian but also foreign-owned ships operating in the region.
India's commitment to strengthening maritime security was further solidified during a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in October 2015. The two leaders recognized the growing challenges posed by piracy and other maritime threats and agreed to enhance cooperation in anti-piracy initiatives. This partnership has allowed both nations to exchange critical intelligence and operational strategies aimed at combating piracy effectively.
The challenges of piracy became evident once again with the hijacking of the Indian-flagged cargo vessel MV Al Kausar on April 1, 2017. Operating under the flag of India, this dhow was attacked while transporting wheat and sugar from Dubai to Puntland, Somalia. The pirates, who took control of the vessel along with its 11 Indian crew members, intended to use the captives as leverage for the release of imprisoned compatriots in India. However, a swift and coordinated response from Somali security forces led to a successful raid, resulting in the rescue of the crew members and the capture of the pirates. This operation not only highlighted the ongoing threat of piracy but also underscored the importance of international cooperation, as the Indian Navy took the responsibility of securing the vessel and its crew, conducting necessary medical checks, and ensuring safe passage to their intended destination.
Overall, India's proactive approach to combating piracy off the coast of Somalia reflects its dedication to maritime security and the protection of its nationals, while also contributing to regional stability in a crucial shipping corridor. The collaborative efforts with Somalia exemplify how nations can work together to address shared maritime challenges, reaffirming the significance of international partnerships in the fight against piracy.
Somali Community in India
The onset of the Somali Civil War in 1991 prompted a significant number of Somalis to seek refuge in various parts of the world, including India. This influx contributed to the establishment of a Somali refugee community in India, which has since grown and integrated into the diverse social fabric of the nation. As of 2007, the estimated population of Somalis in India stood at around 600, with a striking concentration of 80-90% residing in Hyderabad. This city has emerged as a central hub for Somalis, offering various support networks and cultural ties that facilitate their adaptation to life in India. Additionally, other cities such as Pune, New Delhi, Mumbai, Mysuru, and Aurangabad have also witnessed the settlement of Somali immigrants, contributing to the multicultural landscape of these urban areas.
Education and Healthcare Seekers
Many Somalis traveling to India are motivated by educational aspirations or the pursuit of medical care. India's reputation for quality higher education and advanced medical facilities attracts Somali students and patients alike. Indian universities offer various courses in diverse fields, which have become appealing to international students, including those from Somalia. The country has also established itself as a destination for medical tourism, with renowned healthcare institutions that provide specialized treatments at relatively affordable prices. Notably, the current Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, pursued his studies in India during the 1980s, underscoring the historic and personal ties between Somali leadership and Indian educational institutions.
Cultural Integration and Relations
The Somali community in India has worked hard to preserve its cultural identity while also striving to integrate into the broader Indian society. Cultural exchanges and events, often organized by Somali expatriates or community leaders, promote awareness and understanding of Somali traditions and heritage among local Indians. As diplomatic relations between India and Somalia continue to strengthen, fueled by shared interests in trade, security, and development, the Somali community in India serves as a bridge fostering closer ties between the two nations.
In conclusion, the Somali presence in India represents a story of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Their contributions to the social and cultural dynamism of Indian cities highlight the importance of global migration and its related narratives, as well as the potential for increased cooperation between India and Somalia in various fields, including education, healthcare, and trade.
Indians in Somalia
The historical ties between Indian traders and the Somali people date back many centuries, with interactions noted as far back as 1331 by the Arab traveler Ibn Battuta. He documented the thriving presence of Indian merchants in the Horn of Africa, highlighting their ability to establish themselves with families in communities featuring one or two-storey buildings. This early engagement paved the way for a longstanding relationship that saw Indian traders significantly contribute to the local economy through the export of livestock, meat, skins, and agricultural products, particularly from the southern regions of Somalia during the 19th century.
As colonial influences swept through the region in the early to mid-20th century, Indian nationals began playing a vital role in the agricultural sector. Italian plantation owners hired Indian laborers during the 1940s and 50s to work on plantations primarily around Qoryoley. This collaboration not only bolstered the agricultural productivity of the region but also led to the establishment of numerous Indian-owned businesses in Somalia, ranging from textiles to food supply operations. The Indian community, which consisted of approximately 200 families, was predominantly concentrated in urban centers such as Mogadishu and Merka, where they engaged in cloth dyeing and other trades. These families created their own social networks, establishing schools and community facilities to cater to their cultural needs, amidst a predominantly nomadic Somali populace.
The socio-political landscape of Somalia underwent drastic changes in the late 20th century, particularly during the Somali Civil War which erupted in 1991. This period marked a significant exodus for the Indian community, as many families relocated to Mombasa, Kenya, seeking safety and stability. Before the civil strife, Indian families in Kismayo migrated to the capital, Mogadishu, which was viewed as a hub of economic activity. Unfortunately, the onset of conflict led to widespread violence, and nearly the entire Indian population in Somalia was displaced. Armed militias seized Indian-owned properties that had been established for generations, effectively ending a prosperous chapter of Indian-Somali relations. The legacy of Indian traders and their contributions to Somali society remain an essential part of the history between the two nations, whose ties continue to evolve in the context of regional political dynamics.
Indian Peacekeeping Efforts in Somalia
India has played a significant role in international peacekeeping efforts, particularly during the tumultuous era in Somalia in the early 1990s. Notably, around 4,600 Indian troops were deployed as part of the United Nations Operation in Somalia II (UNOSOM II) from 1993 to 1994. This contingent was under the command of Brigadier M P Bhagat and was primarily stationed in Baidoa, a city that was pivotal during the conflict. The deployment included a diverse range of military assets such as armored vehicles, helicopters, and support from the Indian Navy, which underscored India's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The Indian troops faced significant challenges during their operations in Somalia. Their mission, which aimed to facilitate humanitarian assistance and restore order amidst ongoing civil strife, resulted in the tragic loss of twelve Indian soldiers. These casualties highlighted the dangers the troops encountered while working to protect civilians and support local communities. Despite these hardships, the Indian forces also engaged in various humanitarian activities. Their efforts extended beyond military engagement, as they participated in rebuilding initiatives aimed at restoring basic services and infrastructure in war-torn areas.
In addition to peacekeeping duties, the Indian contingent's humanitarian work included the distribution of essential supplies to the local population. Noteworthy among these contributions was the distribution of medicines and agricultural seeds valued at ₹10 lakh, which is equivalent to approximately ₹72 lakh or US$87,000 in 2023. Such initiatives were crucial in addressing the immediate health needs and food security concerns of displaced and affected communities, which were prevalent in the wake of the conflict. India's involvement in Somalia through peacekeeping and humanitarian operations reflects its broader commitment to international cooperation and support in times of crisis, a policy that has been a consistent theme in India's foreign relations.