Mogadishu, Somalia – The President of South West State, Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, held a private meeting in Mogadishu with Ethiopia’s newly appointed Ambassador to Somalia, Suleiman Dedefo.

The talks focused on the security situation in South West State, particularly the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab. Ambassador Dedefo reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting the regional administration in its efforts to drive Al-Shabaab militants out of areas under their control.

President Laftagareen expressed his gratitude for the role of Ethiopian forces stationed in South West State. The troops, serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), have been actively engaged in joint operations against the militant group.

Ethiopian forces remain a key part of security operations in the region as Somali authorities, with international support, intensify efforts to weaken Al-Shabaab’s presence and restore stability.