MOGADISHU, Somalia – On May 4, 2024, the Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, held a farewell meeting for the outgoing United Nations Special Representative for Somalia, Catriona Laing, at his office in Mogadishu.
During the meeting, PM Barre praised Laing for her pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between Somalia and the United Nations during her tenure.
Laing, a dedicated and long-serving UN staff member, succeeded Raisedon Zenenga of Zimbabwe in December 2023. As a Special Representative, she made significant contributions to Somalia’s development in various sectors, including security and the economy. Her efforts to support Somalia’s state-building process and cooperation with the Federal Government have been widely appreciated.
PM Barre expressed his gratitude to Laing for her exceptional role in forging a strong bond between Somalia and the UN, emphasizing the positive impact of the UN’s support on Somalia’s progress in multiple areas. On her part, Laing thanked the Somali government and its citizens for their cooperation and warm hospitality throughout her tenure.
In addition to the farewell meeting with PM Barre, Laing also had a farewell call with Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, where they discussed regional developments and Somalia’s ongoing security transition.
Furthermore, she met with the Swiss Ambassador Valentin Zellweger to discuss the international community’s support for Somalia and regional developments.
The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Amb. Souef Mohamed Elamine, also hosted a farewell dinner for Laing in Mogadishu.
The SRCC praised Laing for her exceptional role in peacebuilding and her contribution to strengthening the bond between the UN and Somalia.
As Catriona Laing wraps up her mission in Somalia, her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the collaboration between Somalia and the United Nations.
The farewell events and meetings highlighted the importance of continued international support for Somalia’s development and security.
