Mogadishu— President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held talks with the Commander of the United States Africa Command, General Dagvin R. M. Anderson, focusing on regional security, counterterrorism efforts and strengthened defence cooperation between Somalia and the United States.

The meeting reviewed the overall security situation in Somalia and the wider region, with particular emphasis on accelerating military operations against terrorist groups, enhancing coordination between the two countries and strengthening the capabilities of the Somali National Armed Forces.

The two officials also discussed continued United States support for Somalia’s efforts to consolidate peace, improve national security and promote long-term stability across the region.

President Hassan Sheikh expressed his appreciation to the United States Government for its sustained support and longstanding partnership with Somalia. He said cooperation between the two countries had played an important role in strengthening Somalia’s security institutions and improving the operational capabilities of the national armed forces.

The President further noted that the strategic partnership between Somalia and the United States remained essential to advancing security, stability and sustainable development in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.

General Anderson, for his part, reaffirmed the United States Government’s commitment to supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism. He also underlined Washington’s continued support for military capacity-building, security-sector development and stronger strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to maintaining close coordination and expanding security and defence cooperation in support of a more peaceful, secure and stable Somalia.