Visiting Washington on Thursday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was welcomed at the Pentagon by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. They discussed security and the partnership between the two nations in the fight against extremists in Somalia and the Horn of Africa.
"Since June 2022, the SNA, the Somali National Army, has been able to partner with local forces in the withdrawal of Al-Shabaab from 20% of the area they previously controlled. We recognize that defeating Al -Shabaab requires a multi-faceted approach that includes effective and accountable security forces and an inclusive state-building process, the capacity of the state to deliver the rule of law and essential services to the public." said the head of state.
"Somalia and the Horn of Africa have entered a crucial transition period. This period will be critical given the ongoing hostilities in Ethiopia and the persistent threat from Al-Shabab, which continues to launch attacks against civilians. Our cooperation here is crucial, Mr. President, and we stand ready as your partners." explained Lloyd Austin, US Secretary of Defense.
On Thursday, the Somali government called on al-Shabab militants to surrender to security forces to avoid being eliminated and vowed to step up offensives against them.
President Mohamud urged citizens to stay away from areas controlled by militants earlier this week.
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