MOGADISHU (SONNA) – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre hosted a high-level diplomatic meeting at his office on Thursday, receiving the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Somalia, Ahmed Bin Mohamed Salah Al-Muwallad. The discussions centered on bolstering the historic bilateral relations between the two nations, with a specific focus on expanding economic cooperation and accelerating development initiatives.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to review the current state of cooperation across security, economic investment, and social affairs. A primary objective of the dialogue was to identify mechanisms to fast-track development projects currently funded by Saudi Arabia, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits to the Somali people without delay.
During the exchange, Prime Minister Barre expressed the Federal Government’s gratitude for the unwavering support provided by Riyadh. He noted that the Kingdom has consistently stood with the Somali government and its citizens during challenging periods.
Looking toward the future, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of transitioning from aid to trade. He specifically advocated for increased Saudi investment in Somalia’s critical infrastructure, describing it as a necessary engine for the country’s economic recovery and long-term stability.
Given the presence of Mohamud Moallim Abdulle, the Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), the meeting also addressed the humanitarian landscape. The officials discussed the Kingdom’s vital role in delivering emergency assistance to communities affected by climate shocks. Both parties agreed on the need to coordinate efforts to reach vulnerable populations still recovering from the impact of severe droughts.
Ambassador Al-Muwallad reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Somalia. He assured the Prime Minister that Saudi Arabia is ready to scale up its support, not only through humanitarian channels but also by implementing new development projects that align with Somalia’s national transformation goals.
The meeting was also attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, Kamal Dahir Guutaale, and other senior government officials.
