Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has accomplished a one-day official go to to Uganda on the invitation of Ugandan President Museveni.
The 2 leaders engaged in discussions geared toward boosting bilateral relations, enhancing regional safety, and deepening financial ties, with a concentrate on Somalia’s current integration into the East African Neighborhood (EAC).
In the course of the go to, President Museveni congratulated Somalia for turning into the latest member of the EAC, marking what he described as “a brand new period of regional integration, wider regional market, and commerce cooperation.”
He additionally praised Somalia’s election as an incoming non-permanent member of the United Nations Safety Council for the 2025-2026 time period, calling it a major achievement for the nation.
The heads of state exchanged views on regional safety, notably the continued efforts to stabilize Somalia. Each leaders recommended the efforts of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the Somali Safety Forces in combating Al-Shabaab.
“We commend the sacrifices made by ATMIS and the Somali Safety Forces in pacifying the nation,” learn the joint communiqué issued on the conclusion of the talks.
The leaders additionally welcomed the institution of the African Union Assist and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which is able to construct on the progress made by ATMIS.
They emphasised the necessity for “predictable and sustainable funding” for AUSSOM and known as upon the worldwide neighborhood to assist this mission, referencing the significance of UN Decision 2719 in exploring funding choices.
On the bilateral entrance, Uganda and Somalia signed the Standing of Forces Settlement (SOFA) as a part of a broader Memorandum of Understanding on protection cooperation.
The settlement paves the best way for nearer collaboration in navy issues. The 2 international locations additionally mentioned cooperation in areas similar to schooling, sports activities, and immigration administration.
President Museveni and President Mohamud directed their respective ministers to finalize Memoranda of Understanding in these areas and agreed to carry a Joint Everlasting Fee and Funding Summit quickly.
In a key growth, President Mohamud welcomed the current lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia, stating that it “presents a chance for the Federal Authorities of Somalia to expedite the transition course of and implement the Somali Safety Improvement Plan.”
He added that it will permit Somalia to shoulder better duty for its personal safety.
President Museveni praised his Somali counterpart for his “dedication, resilience, and efforts” in stabilizing Somalia, whereas President Mohamud expressed gratitude to Uganda for its assist, highlighting the shared dedication to regional peace and stability.
Each leaders reaffirmed their dedication to furthering integration via the EAC, Inter-Governmental Authority on Improvement (IGAD), and the African Union.
Supply: Nile Put up
