The bilateral relationship between Iraq and Somalia has evolved significantly over the past several decades, with both countries navigating periods of political change, conflict, and economic challenges. While historical interactions between the two nations have been limited, there has been a growing recognition of their mutual interest in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. Situated in the Middle East and the Horn of Africa, respectively, Iraq and Somalia have both faced regional instability, yet they continue to find common ground through shared goals of development, regional peace, and international cooperation. Over time, diplomatic visits, trade, and development assistance have formed the foundation of this evolving relationship.

1. Historical Background

The history of Iraq and Somalia’s bilateral relationship is shaped by broader geopolitical dynamics, such as the Cold War, regional conflicts, and the internationalization of both countries’ challenges. While the two nations did not engage in direct political or economic relations during the early stages of their independence, there have been key historical events that have gradually influenced their interactions.

Colonial and Post-Independence Contexts

Iraq and Somalia, though located in different regions, both share a post-colonial history marked by periods of instability and conflict. Somalia was a British and Italian colony, which gained independence in 1960 when the British Somaliland and the Italian Somaliland merged to form the Somali Republic. Iraq, meanwhile, was under British control until 1958, when the monarchy was overthrown, and it became a republic. Despite both countries having been impacted by colonialism, their paths diverged in the post-independence period.

Somalia, after independence, initially embraced a pan-African and pan-Arab ideology, seeking to align with other African and Arab countries. Iraq, during this time, became a significant player in the Arab world, particularly in the context of the Arab nationalist movements and later the rise of Saddam Hussein’s regime. The two countries were both members of the Arab League, and Iraq was an influential political actor within this organization. Somalia, similarly, was involved in pan-Arab political activities and aligned with Arab nations in some of the regional conflicts, particularly in the Horn of Africa. See sciencedict for more information about Somalia.

Political Turmoil and Conflicts

Both Iraq and Somalia endured substantial political and military turmoil throughout the latter half of the 20th century. In Iraq, the Ba’ath Party led by Saddam Hussein rose to power in 1968, and his regime continued to shape the country’s foreign policy until 2003. Hussein’s government became known for its aggressive foreign policy, including the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) and the invasion of Kuwait in 1990, which led to the Gulf War and subsequent international sanctions.

Somalia, on the other hand, entered a period of internal conflict starting in the late 1980s, leading to the collapse of its central government in 1991. The ensuing civil war and the emergence of various factions severely hampered Somalia’s ability to maintain foreign relations or engage in regional diplomacy. As a result, both Iraq and Somalia faced internal challenges and external pressures, which made diplomatic engagement between the two countries sparse.

The 1990s and Early 2000s

The 1990s were marked by significant challenges for both nations. In Iraq, the aftermath of the Gulf War and international sanctions further isolated the country. Somalia, on the other hand, became a failed state after the collapse of its government in 1991, and the country faced widespread violence, famine, and the emergence of multiple warring factions. These conflicts hindered the ability of either country to establish meaningful diplomatic relations.

However, both Iraq and Somalia were involved in larger regional and international frameworks. Iraq remained a member of the Arab League, while Somalia, though weakened by internal conflict, was still a part of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and other regional institutions.

Post-2003 Developments

Iraq’s invasion by U.S. forces in 2003 and the eventual removal of Saddam Hussein led to a period of rebuilding and re-engagement with the international community. Somalia, on the other hand, was embroiled in conflict until the early 2000s when it began efforts to form a transitional government. As Somalia stabilized politically, the opportunity for bilateral relations with Iraq began to emerge.

In the late 2000s and 2010s, both countries began to re-establish connections through multilateral engagements, particularly in areas related to peacebuilding, regional security, and humanitarian assistance. The recognition of the potential for economic cooperation, especially in the energy and agricultural sectors, has driven both nations to explore formal diplomatic and economic ties.

2. Diplomatic Relations

Iraq and Somalia’s diplomatic relations have been shaped by both countries’ efforts to rebuild their international standing in the post-conflict years. While direct bilateral exchanges have remained limited, both countries have recognized the potential for deeper diplomatic and economic engagement.

Official Visits and Diplomatic Dialogues

Official visits between Iraq and Somalia have been few, but as both countries have sought to strengthen their international relationships, they have begun to explore areas of cooperation. Iraq’s embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, covers Somalia, while Somalia has representation in Iraq through its embassy in Jordan, with Iraqi diplomatic missions to Somalia handled by regional delegations.

There have been informal dialogues and exchanges at international events and conferences, where Iraq and Somalia representatives have met. These diplomatic exchanges have generally been focused on sharing experiences regarding post-conflict recovery, rebuilding state institutions, and regional security. Iraq’s experiences in rebuilding its political institutions and infrastructure post-2003 have been of particular interest to Somali officials, as they too work toward stabilization after years of civil conflict.

Diplomatic Missions and Representation

Somalia and Iraq are represented in each other’s countries through non-resident diplomatic missions, as Somalia’s embassy in Jordan handles its relations with Iraq. Iraq’s embassy in Kenya is responsible for representing Iraq’s interests in Somalia. Despite the lack of permanent embassies in each other’s capitals, diplomatic ties have been sustained through these regional missions.

Additionally, both countries participate in international platforms such as the United Nations, where they have cooperated on regional issues and global security concerns. Through their participation in the UN and other international organizations, Iraq and Somalia have worked to align their positions on issues like counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and the reconstruction of post-conflict states.

Cooperation in Regional and International Organizations

Both countries have utilized their membership in the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to engage diplomatically. These organizations provide a platform for Iraq and Somalia to discuss common challenges, such as regional security and economic development. Their shared membership in the Arab League, in particular, has provided opportunities for them to engage in discussions about the political and security situations in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East.

Additionally, Iraq’s increasing involvement in the international community after the 2003 invasion, and Somalia’s gradual return to stability in the 2010s, have led to more opportunities for bilateral cooperation on issues such as counterterrorism, human rights, and disaster response.

3. Trade and Economic Relations

Economic relations between Iraq and Somalia have historically been underdeveloped, primarily due to the internal conflicts each country has faced. However, as both nations work to rebuild and stabilize their economies, there is growing potential for increased economic collaboration.

Bilateral Trade Volume and Key Exports

Bilateral trade between Iraq and Somalia remains limited, but both countries have started exploring avenues to enhance trade. Iraq is a major oil producer, and Somalia, with its strategic location along the Horn of Africa, is well-positioned to develop trade routes that connect the Middle East to the African continent.

The major areas of potential trade include Somalia’s agricultural products, such as livestock, fish, and agricultural goods like bananas and sesame seeds, which could be exported to Iraq. Iraq, with its significant oil exports, could serve as a supplier of energy resources, offering Somalia access to petroleum products and related resources that could help fuel its economic development.

Major Imports and Exports

Somalia’s key exports to Iraq could include agricultural products such as livestock, seafood, and a variety of crops. Somalia has long been a producer of livestock and agricultural goods, and these products have the potential to enter the Iraqi market, especially as Iraq continues its efforts to diversify its economy and develop its agricultural sector.

On the other hand, Iraq could export petroleum and petrochemical products to Somalia. Iraq’s oil sector remains a cornerstone of its economy, and while Somalia does not have a well-developed oil industry, it can benefit from access to these resources, particularly for energy needs. Iraq’s construction and infrastructure industries also present potential exports to Somalia, which is in the process of rebuilding after decades of conflict.

Investment Flows and Economic Cooperation

While investment flows between Iraq and Somalia are currently limited, there is a growing interest in collaboration in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. Iraq’s investment in Somalia could focus on infrastructure development, particularly in areas like transportation, energy, and telecommunications, where Somalia’s rebuilding efforts are focused. Iraq’s experience in rebuilding its own infrastructure, particularly after the Gulf War and the 2003 invasion, has positioned it as a potential partner in helping Somalia address similar challenges.

Somalia, in turn, has the potential to benefit from Iraq’s expertise in energy and construction, while its agricultural sector could present opportunities for investment from Iraqi firms seeking to diversify their portfolios.

Economic Cooperation Agreements

Although Iraq and Somalia do not yet have formal economic cooperation agreements, both countries have expressed interest in developing such frameworks to enhance trade and investment. As Somalia stabilizes and Iraq continues its recovery, economic cooperation in areas such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure development is likely to grow.

Through bilateral dialogues and regional cooperation platforms, both Iraq and Somalia have recognized the value of formalizing economic relationships to ensure long-term stability and growth. These agreements are expected to focus on enhancing trade, facilitating investments, and promoting economic cooperation in key sectors that are vital to both countries’ development.