MOGADISHU, Somalia – The commander of the Somali National Army, Gen. Ibrahim Sheikh Muhudiin, met with the US embassy officials in Somalia, A.I Shane Dixon, on Thursday to discuss the progress of the training and equipment they provide to the Somali forces, especially the Danab Commandos.
The meeting was held at a time when the Somali government is waging a war against the Kharijite militants of Al Shabaab, who are being driven out of the areas they control.
According to a statement from the Somali army, the two sides exchanged views on the security situation in Somalia and the region, and reaffirmed their commitment to continue their cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
The US embassy officials praised the achievements and sacrifices of the Somali army and expressed their support for the ongoing operations to liberate the remaining territories from Al Shabaab.
Gen. Muhudiin thanked the US for its assistance and partnership with the Somali army and expressed his confidence that the Somali forces will soon defeat Al Shabaab and restore peace and stability in the country.
The US has been providing training, advice, and equipment to the Somali army and the Danab Commandos, an elite unit that has been conducting successful raids against Al Shabaab targets.
The US also conducts airstrikes against Al Shabaab militants in coordination with the Somali government.
The group has lost most of its strongholds to the Somali army getting support from international partners, but still carries out attacks on government and civilian targets.
