The President of the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU), Mr. Mohamed Osman Haji Ali, and Vice President, Hamda Osman, held an official meeting with the Chairman of the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation, Mr. Sahib Mammadov, during their official visit to Azerbaijan.
This meeting focused on the importance of strengthening cooperation between the trade unions of Somalia and Azerbaijan. The discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral relations, building on the visit of H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, to Azerbaijan—an event that marks a new chapter in the economic and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
SOCOTU and Azerbaijan Trade Unions Share Key Insights
During the meeting, the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation provided a comprehensive overview of:
Ongoing labor system reforms
Innovative strategies for improving workers’ rights
Implemented and planned projects supporting labor rights and social welfare
On the other hand, SOCOTU President, Mr. Mohamed Osman Haji Ali, shared insights into SOCOTU’s role in defending workers’ rights, promoting social justice, and improving working conditions in Somalia.
Major Outcome: Signing of the Cooperation Agreement 
This visit culminated in a significant milestone—the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SOCOTU and the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation. This historic agreement focuses on:
Strengthening collaboration to improve workers’ welfare
Defending labor rights and promoting social justice
Sharing experiences and knowledge exchange programs
Implementing joint initiatives in labor and social affairs
As part of their visit, SOCOTU leadership toured the “Kurort” Tourism Information Center, where they received a briefing on Azerbaijan’s transparent and accessible system that allows trade union members to easily access tourism opportunities and social services.
SOCOTU’s New Partnership: A New Era for Somali Workers
This new agreement marks the beginning of a new era in global trade union cooperation, ensuring stronger protection and representation for workers in both Somalia and Azerbaijan. It also reinforces Somalia’s commitment to building international partnerships in the labor and social sectors.
SOCOTU remains dedicated to advancing workers’ rights in Somalia through international collaboration with global trade unions.
