MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday held talks with the commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, focusing on regional security, counterterrorism efforts and defence cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting addressed the broader security situation in the Horn of Africa, efforts to accelerate operations against militant groups, and ways to strengthen coordination between Somali and U.S. security institutions, according to a statement from the Somali presidency.
President Hassan Sheikh thanked the United States for its continued support to Somalia, saying the partnership had played an important role in strengthening the capabilities of the Somali National Army and supporting peace and stability in the region.
“Cooperation between Somalia and the United States remains vital in enhancing security, stability and development,” the president said.
General Anderson reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to maintaining its support for Somalia, particularly in counterterrorism operations, military capacity-building and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting comes as Somalia continues military operations against Al-Shabaab militants, while international partners review the future of security assistance and support for African Union-led operations in the country.
