The president of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohammed visited Saudi Arabia along with a delegation to attend the Arab League meeting. During his speech, the President focussed on the progress Somalia has made over the recent years while also speaking about the challenges being faced by the Arab countries.
The main focus of this speech was the countries of Sudan and Syria. The president expressed his sorrow over the ongoing conflict in Sudan and reiterated the need for peace-building efforts. The ongoing efforts by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States toward brokering a ceasefire agreement were appreciated by President Hassan.
In his speech, the president also welcomed Syria to the Arab League after an 11-year absence and expressed his government’s support for the Arab republics in Syria to resume their historic role in Arab affairs.
President Hassan Sheikh also engaged in meetings with several Arab leaders and held discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing shared concerns. He also met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to discuss enhancing security, political, economic, and diplomatic ties between Somalia and Iraq.
In his address at the conference, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud highlighted the significant progress Somalia had achieved under his leadership. He emphasized the successful efforts in combating the al-Shabaab extremist group, with over 80 cities liberated and improved security in the capital. Furthermore, he mentioned Somalia’s readiness to assume security responsibility from the African Union peacekeeping forces, with the AU mission scheduled to conclude in December 2024.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s participation in the Arab League meeting and his engagements with regional leaders demonstrate Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation, and peacebuilding, and highlight its own progress in various sectors.
