Somalia’s Defence Minister Mourns Death of Djibouti Counterpart

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal government of Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi has expressed condolences to the government and people of Djibouti following the death of the country’s Defence Minister Hassan Omar Mohamed Bourhan, describing him as a key partner in regional peace and security efforts.

In a statement, Fiqi extended his sympathies to Djibouti’s President, the bereaved family, the country’s armed forces and Djiboutian troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

He said Bourhan had served Djibouti with dedication over many years and played an important role in strengthening the country’s defence institutions.

Fiqi also praised the late minister’s contribution to Djibouti’s longstanding support for Somalia’s efforts to restore peace, security and stability, noting that the neighbouring country has remained one of Somalia’s closest security partners.

Djibouti is one of the troop-contributing countries to AUSSOM, the African Union-led mission that supports Somali security forces in operations against the Islamist militant group al Shabaab. The country has also played a prominent diplomatic role in regional peace initiatives and mediation efforts in the Horn of Africa.

The death of Bourhan comes at a time when Somalia and Djibouti continue to deepen defence and security cooperation as Somali authorities work with regional partners to gradually assume greater responsibility for the country’s security during the phased transition from international peacekeeping support.

Fiqi prayed for the late minister’s family, the government and people of Djibouti to be granted strength during the period of mourning.