Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to the Pentagon today, praising the Somali leader for achieving great gains during an extremely hazardous era. Austin highlighted that the meeting between the two leaders occurs at a critical period in Mohamud’s administration, when Somali troops are rising up and the African Union is about to depart from the nation.
“This period will be especially important given the ongoing hostilities — including instability in Sudan — and the persistent threat of al-Shabaab,” Austin explained. “I’m encouraged to hear about the current phase of the Somali-led operation against al-Shabaab in central Somalia.” Our collaboration is critical in these activities, and we stand ready to be your partner as you protect yourself against these deadly and violent groups.”
The US is also ready to help Somalia defend itself against other risks, such as providing real answers to climatic shocks like the present drought. Drought has caused hunger and devastation in Somalia and the Horn of Africa as a whole. Austin lauded Somalia’s president for “involving key international partners in the planning of the Somali-led transition and the transparency of your security initiatives.” As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, I am grateful to your government and people for your willingness to host our soldiers in Somalia.
Mohamud praised Austin for America’s aid and support over the last three decades. Despite significant challenges, the country is closer to peace than it has been in a long time, according to the president. “I would like to express my gratitude to the US government for its assistance to the Somali people in our fight against al-Shabaab,” he told Austin. According to Mohamud, the Somali National Army has collaborated with local populations to reclaim more than 70 places from al-Shabaab during the last year. He stated that heightened intelligence operations by the military and administration had improved security and led in a “marked reduction” in assaults in Mogadishu, the capital city.
“Somalia has been in a unique situation,” stated the president. “We are grateful to the United States for its continued assistance.” Many of the concerns that I addressed with you the last time I was here [remain]. But thus far, so good, and we are quite pleased with the quality of assistance offered. I appreciate it.”