MOGADISHU, April 24 (Xinhua) -- The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Wednesday welcomed the decision by Belgium to recognize diplomatic and service passports of Somalia.

Mahboub Maalim, IGAD's executive secretary, said the move is a positive step and a demonstration of a growing confidence by the international community in the Somali government and its institutions.

"Maalim notes that the move will significantly boost bilateral relations between Somalia and Belgium and facilitate Somalia government officials to engage with European Union institutions based in Brussels," the bloc said in a statement.

Maalim expressed optimism that Belgium will extend this recognition to the ordinary passport of Somalia.

"He also encourages other remaining countries to recognize passport issued by the Federal Government of Somalia and facilitate favorable visa processing for Somali nationals," said the bloc.