Sunday February 25, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with the UK Minister of State for Defense, James Stephen Heappey, in Mogadishu on Sunday.
President Mohamud discussed the federal government's achievements in ensuring security, strengthening the Armed Forces, and ongoing efforts in fighting terrorism. He highlighted that these efforts have enabled the country to overcome difficult stages, including lifting the arms embargo.
The President thanked the British Government for its role in training the Somali forces as Somalia prepares to take over the country's security responsibilities after the departure of the remaining ATMIS forces.
The UK Minister of State for Defense, Mr. James Stephen, praised the significant progress made by the people and the government of Somalia. He noted his government's commitment to strengthening cooperation between Somalia and the UK in defense and combating terrorism.
Last month, the United Kingdom announced a further £5 million of support for the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) to provide non-lethal support to Somali Security Forces.
The UK funding follows a substantial contribution of £5 million in December 2023. Since 2022, the UK has provided over £20 million in voluntary contributions in support of UNSOS, aiming to support a safer Somalia and foster progress together.