Somalia, Kenya Presidents Discusses Counter Terrorism Efforts at China-Africa Summit

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BEIJING: Federal government of Somalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with Kenyan President William Ruto to discuss the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing which focused on shared challenges and regional cooperation.

The two leaders also emphasized the paramount importance of addressing the threat of international terrorism, which has been a persistent challenge in the region.

Both Somalia and Kenya have faced significant security threats from groups such as Al-Shabaab. President Mohamud highlighted Somalia’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, noting the successes achieved with the support of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

On his part, President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to regional security initiatives, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation for long-term peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

On climate change issues, the two leaders also addressed the pressing climate-related challenges, which have worsened food insecurity, displacement, and resource-based conflicts in East Africa.

They discussed strategies for enhancing climate resilience and sustainable development to tackle these challenges more effectively.

The meeting also covered broader regional issues, including economic development and infrastructure projects. Both presidents stressed the importance of upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the Horn of Africa.

The two leaders also agreed that stability and prosperity in the region are anchored in mutual respect and collaborative efforts to address common challenges, and emphasized the need to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the Horn of Africa, amid Somalia accused Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty after signing a MoU with Somaliland.

The meeting between President Mohamud and President Ruto on the sidelines of the FOCAC summit reflects the ongoing efforts of African leaders to address shared challenges through dialogue and cooperation. As both countries continue to navigate complex security and climate issues, their commitment to working together will be crucial in fostering stability and prosperity in the region.