Tuesday April 11, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday at the Presidential Palace in Mogadishu.
Mohamud and Guterres discussed bilateral cooperation, priority plans for the Somali government, and responding to drought and climate change, poverty, and civil strife.
President Mohamud briefed the Secretary-General on his government's achievements in national security, strengthening of friendship, debt relief, development of economic infrastructure, and reconciliation.
"This visit assures us that the United Nations is fully committed to supporting our plans for government building and stabilizing the country," President Mohamud said.
Mohamud outlined the government's progress in security and state-building and national priorities, including drought response, counterterrorism, and the need to lift the arms embargo on Somalia.
"We are moving forward. On the security front, Somalia is liberating its country from the scourge of international terrorism, which has been there for a couple of decades," he added.
Secretary António Guterres emphasized that he understands the humanitarian situation faced by the Somali government and is committed to strengthening the support and assistance of the country.
"I am here to reaffirm the United Nations' commitment to Somalia and its people. We stand with you in your efforts to build a peaceful, stable, and prosperous country. We will continue to support your government's efforts to deliver on its priorities, including the fight against terrorism, providing basic services, and promoting economic development," Secretary Guterres said.
The Secretary-General also reiterated the United Nations' support for the Somali-led and Somali-owned peace process and called on all parties to continue to work towards a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement.
"The United Nations is committed to supporting the Somali people in their efforts to build a better future for themselves and their children. We will continue to work with you to achieve your goals and aspirations," Secretary Guterres said.
Guterres's arrival comes as the country is in the grip of a calamitous drought that has driven many to the brink of famine, while the government is also engaged in a major offensive to put down a bloody Islamist insurgency.
The UN has launched a $2.6 billion appeal for humanitarian aid for the troubled Horn of Africa nation, but it is currently only 13 percent funded.
Five straight failed rainy seasons in parts of Somalia as well as Kenya and Ethiopia have led to the worst drought in four decades, wiping out livestock and crops and forcing at least 1.7 million people from their homes in search of food and water.
While famine thresholds have not been reached in Somalia, the United Nations says about half its population will need humanitarian assistance this year, with 8.3 million affected by the drought.