MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has announced the suspension of its country programme for bilateral development cooperation with Somalia, citing insufficient progress in readmissions cooperation.
The Finnish Government Programme stipulates that development cooperation is contingent on partner countries’ support for the international rules-based order and the readmission of nationals.
Somalia, a key receiver of Finland’s development aid, has not advanced as expected in meeting these conditions.
“This suspension means that no new funding decisions will be made under the country programme until we see concrete progress in readmissions cooperation with Somalia,” stated Ville Tavio, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development.
Despite the suspension, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs will continue collaborating with the Ministry of the Interior to advance readmissions cooperation.
Additionally, the European Union is engaged in bilateral and regional discussions with Somalia on migration management. While the Somali government has expressed willingness to discuss readmissions, tangible outcomes are yet to be achieved, and dialogue will persist.
The suspension will be implemented gradually, allowing existing projects under the programme to be completed as per the agreements. The decision does not affect humanitarian assistance, civil society organizations, or private sector support.
Finland’s Government Report on International Economic Relations and Development Cooperation states that suspended programmes can resume if effective and sustainable return solutions are developed.
Since 2025, Finland has allocated EUR 8–9 million annually for bilateral development cooperation with Somalia.