The Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday received a delegation from the UK headed by Ambassador Harriet Mathews, the Director General, Africa, the Americas, and Overseas Territories at the Foreign, Common Wealth and Development (FCDO).
The two sides held discussion focusing on the consolidation of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the areas of security, politics and the overall development.
The discussion further centered on the operations of the African Union Peace Keeping troops in Somalia known as (AUSSOM), the political development of the country and to capitalize on the achievements through joint support and coordination.
Somali incumbent President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressed deep thanks and appreciations to the UK gov’t for the constant support it provides to Somalia particularly in the areas of security, reforming governmental institutions, and the encouragement of democratization process.
A statement from Villa Somalia said that the President of Somalia reiterated that Somalia is committed to strengthen the strategic ties with the UK gov’t in order to reach lasting stability, holding one-man one-vote elections, and lasting peace in Somalia.
On her side, Ms. Mathews said that the UK government will continue the support it provides to Somalia while giving a top priority to the transition of ATMIS to AUSSOM, and that the Somali National Army (SNA) will take over the security responsibility of the country.
Moreover, the two sides discussed ways to expedite the one-man one-vote elections and enhancing the efforts to strengthen the state building.
The UK is a friendly country with Somalia and plays a crucial role when it come to the development projects, rebuilding Somalia’s robust institutions, humanitarian support, and the fight against terrorism.
The visit embarked by Ms. Harriet Mathews to Somalia coincides when Somalia is at a critical juncture particularly the security and politics. The Somali Federal Gov’t took important strides in order to strengthen security.
