Mogadishu (AX) — A whirlwind of bureaucratic hurdles has prompted Italy to suddenly slam the brakes on issuing visas to Somali citizens, leaving many in a state of confusion. Ambassador Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, in a rare departure from diplomatic parlance, squashed speculations of political motives, pointing instead to administrative hang-ups that have choked the visa machinery. He reassured that the Italian authorities are busy untangling red tape, aiming to get the situation back on track swiftly.
From the heart of Rome, Daccò Coppi dispelled any notions linking Italy’s decision to Somalia’s political climate. “This is just a temporary hiccup in administration—nothing else. There’s zero political play at work here,” asserted the ambassador, dismissing suggestions of Italy being part of some grand geopolitical chess game. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is keeping a watchful eye on this and is poised to mend it soon.”
The Italian Embassy in Mogadishu went public with the halt in September via a succinct announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter), explaining its Nairobi office—responsible for processing Schengen visa applications for Somali citizens—had paused its operations. The absence of a detailed rationale for the decision sent ripples of concern among Somalis with plans to travel to Europe.
While Italy maintains that the pause in issuing visas is a procedural snafu, the timing eerily aligns with the European Union’s tougher stance on Somali passport holders. Back in July, the EU suggested tightening visa policies for Somali citizens to coax Somalia into taking back individuals who found their way into Europe through irregular avenues.
Though Daccò Coppi took care not to overtly connect Italy’s move with the EU’s position, the overlap seems tough to overlook. As migration considerations loom large over European politics, Italy’s decision may echo a larger, unspoken strategy. However, the ambassador stuck to his guns, emphasizing the technical nature of the halt while steering clear of wading into the migration fray.
Nevertheless, Daccò Coppi spotlighted Italy’s unwavering support for Somalia’s progress. “Our hand is extended to help Somalia blossom,” he remarked. “Italy’s interest in Somalia’s growth and stability is longstanding and persists despite current system glitches.”
He underscored Italy’s strictly developmental focus in its engagement with Somalia, steering clear of political entanglement. Italy’s inroads in projects ranging from infrastructure to bolstering Somalia’s civil service and security sector illustrate its commitment. “Somalia’s growth remains our goal. Politics, we’ll leave to Somali leaders,” he emphasized, making clear Italy’s intent to steer clear of political interference.
Expressing ambition to visit regions like Jubbaland and Northeastern State, Daccò Coppi highlighted Italy’s drive to engage broadly across Somalia. “Our dedication echoes across the entire land,” he stated, hinting at partnerships that stretch beyond mere diplomacy.
Touched on the tensions bubbling between Somalia and Ethiopia, Daccò Coppi spoke frankly, labeling the discord a squandered chance for collaboration. “It’s a pity things have bubbled over. Somalia and Ethiopia share a storied past, and diplomacy should have won the day,” he observed. “Ethiopia’s access to the sea for trade must be balanced with Somalia’s coastal sovereignty. This needed a diplomatic solution, not clashes.”
Though diplomatic in tone, Daccò Coppi was adamant Italy harbors no intention of intervening in the dispute. “Our purpose is to construct, not to dabble,” he quipped, sealing off any overture of Italy stepping in as a peace broker in the regional contention.
For now, the visa freeze for Somali travelers remains, but Italy insists on finding a remedy. Whether this is just a minor administrative glitch or a whisper of more profound undercurrents in European migration doctrine is yet to be determined.
Sources: BBC Somali Service
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
