NAIROBI, Kenya — Presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia and William Ruto of Kenya concluded their summit on the State Home in Nairobi on October 23, 2024, with a joint dedication to deepen bilateral ties, specializing in safety, commerce, and regional stability.
In a joint assertion, each leaders underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in combating the persistent threats from Al-Shabaab, emphasizing that safety in Somalia straight impacts regional peace. They mentioned the transition plans post-ATMIS, indicating ongoing dialogue on how Somalia will handle its safety equipment after the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) phases out.
Presidents Mohamud and Ruto additionally highlighted developments in financial cooperation, with latest agreements aimed toward enhancing commerce and funding between the 2 nations. These agreements, signed earlier this yr, pave the best way for extra structured political consultations, instructional exchanges, and protection cooperation.
“As we speak’s discussions have been fruitful, reinforcing our shared imaginative and prescient for a safe and affluent East Africa,” President Ruto said. President Mohamud added, “The trail to lasting peace in Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa requires the form of strategic partnership we’re fostering with Kenya.”
The assembly additionally touched upon broader regional points, with each leaders expressing their intent to work intently with different regional blocs just like the East African Neighborhood and the African Union to sort out frequent challenges, together with maritime safety and counter-terrorism.
The joint assertion concluded with an invite for additional high-level engagements, suggesting that President Ruto would possibly go to Mogadishu within the close to future to proceed these dialogues on Somali soil, symbolizing the power of the bilateral relationship.
This summit not solely underscores the strategic partnership between Kenya and Somalia but in addition displays a broader regional strategy in the direction of stability and financial progress, amidst ongoing safety challenges.
