MOGADISHU, Somalia — (Horn Post) Somalian President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met Thursday with the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson, to discuss regional security, counterterrorism operations, and efforts to deepen defense cooperation between Somalia and the United States.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the President of Somalia, the meeting focused on the evolving security situation across the Horn of Africa, accelerating military operations against terrorist groups, enhancing bilateral security cooperation, and continued U.S. support for Somalia’s efforts to strengthen peace and stability.
The discussions come as Somali government forces, supported by international partners, continue military operations against the militant group Al-Shabaab, which remains one of the country’s most significant security threats.
Focus on Security Cooperation
President Hassan Sheikh thanked the United States for its longstanding support for Somalia, emphasizing that bilateral cooperation has played an important role in strengthening the capabilities of the Somali National Army (SNA) and improving national and regional security.
The Somali presidency said the partnership has contributed to enhancing military capacity, supporting stabilization efforts, and promoting long-term security in the Horn of Africa.
AFRICOM Reaffirms U.S. Commitment
According to the Somali government, Gen. Anderson reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to continuing support for Somalia, particularly in the areas of:
- Counterterrorism operations
- Military training and capacity building
- Defense cooperation
- Strategic security partnership
- Regional stability
The meeting reflects ongoing security coordination between Washington and Mogadishu as both countries seek to contain extremist threats and strengthen Somalia’s national security institutions.
Strategic Partnership
The United States remains one of Somalia’s principal security partners, providing military training, intelligence support, and assistance to Somali security forces in coordination with international allies.
AFRICOM has played a central role in supporting Somali-led operations targeting Al-Shabaab while working with regional and international partners to enhance stability throughout the Horn of Africa.
No Immediate U.S. Statement
As of publication, AFRICOM and the U.S. Department of Defense had not issued an official statement regarding the meeting.
The details currently available are based solely on the statement released by the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Further information may become available if AFRICOM releases its own account of the discussions.
Editor’s Note: This report is based on an official statement from the Somali Presidency. Horn post will update the story if AFRICOM or the U.S. government issues additional information regarding the meeting.
Pictures:
Horn Post Staff
MOGADISHU, Somalia
