President Farmaajo upbeat on Somalia’s recovery and regional stability
President Mohamed Farmaajo has reiterated his government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and stability in the country and the region.
Speaking during the opening of the 4th session of the 10th Parliament at General Kahiye Police Academy in Mogadishu today, President Farmaajo said his administration had registered remarkable progress in the country’s recovery progress.
The head of state said the European Union’s pledge of $120 million direct budget support was as a result of fiscal and financial management which had seen the country meet thresholds set by international financial institutions such as the World Bank and IMF.
“We have all fulfilled the terms of the loan amnesty, and that’s why the European Union has promised a budget of $ 120 million,” the President said. The European Union announced during the London Conference last May it would provide the government with 100 million euros following positive reports from the IMF regarding the country’s efforts in meeting the pre-arrears thresholds.
The President’s speech came amid a terror attack in the city which claimed at least six lives and left close to 20 others injured.
JOIN EFFORTS
The President urged Somalis to join efforts with the government in rebuilding the country noting no country in the world prospered without the input and commitment of its citizens. He urged Somalis to take part in the reconstruction project rolled out today which targets citizen contribution in rebuilding key public installations in the country.
Addressing the recent development in the Horn of Africa, the President said the détente between Eritrea and Djibouti was a major milestone in ensuring stability and economic growth in the Horn of Africa.
“We have been successful in the past months in an effort to complete the misunderstanding between the countries of the region, which has become a source of frustration among our neighboring countries in Djibouti and Eritrea,” President Farmaajo said.” We have been closing the door of misunderstanding of the states of the region; we are moving to a collaborative and cooperative era. ”
Eritrea and Djibouti declared a path to restoration of diplomatic relations early this month following mediation efforts by president Farmaajo and Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed.