Somalia, Germany Agree To Step Up Repatriation of Somali Refugees

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BERLIN: The Federal Government of Somalia and Germany have agreed to step up the repatriation of migrants from the East African country.

This was announced after a meeting between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin where the leaders agreed that migrants without the legal right to remain in Germany “will be repatriated quickly and efficiently.”

Chancellor Scholz reassured that his country will support a smooth transition for the affected, adding that those with requisite documents will not be affected.

“This is also in the interest of the very large community of Somalis here in Germany, who are doing well and are well integrated,” the chancellor said.

A total of 65,000 Somalis live in Germany. Scholz said only a “small number” do not have the right to stay in the country.

During the meeting, the two leaders also focused on avenues to enhance collaboration in key sectors including; climate change, economic development and security, as Somalia continues preparations to assume full responsibility as the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) continues its drawdown exercise scheduled to conclude by the end of the year.