Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with senior officials from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) on Monday to discuss the ongoing efforts to combat the Al-Shabaab insurgency in Somalia and the region.
The meeting, which was held at the presidential palace in Mogadishu, was attended by A.I. Shane Dixon and Colonel David J. Haskell, the AFRICOM Commander for Somalia, as well as the Somali National Army Commander and the Commander of the Somali Army Infantry.
The U.S. government expressed its unwavering support for Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab, a militant group affiliated with Al-Qaeda that has been waging a violent campaign against the Somali government and its allies for over a decade. The U.S. officials praised the Somali National Army for its resolute dedication to countering the extremist group and its commitment to protecting the lives of Somali citizens.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud thanked the U.S. government for its continued assistance and cooperation in the counter-terrorism efforts. He emphasized the critical role of international partnership in the fight against Al-Shabaab, which poses a significant threat not only to Somalia but also to the global security and stability.
He also stressed that the Somali people and government are wholeheartedly committed to supporting military operations to eradicate Al-Shabaab and restore peace and security in Somalia and the region.
The Somali military leaders also highlighted the importance of a peaceful Somalia free from terrorism in contributing to regional stability. They pointed out that a stable and secure Somalia plays a pivotal role in promoting peace and security in the entire East African region, which has been affected by various conflicts and humanitarian crises.
