(09-10-23) MOGADISHU — Somali Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre held talks with Pirkka Tapiola, Finland’s Ambassador to Somalia, in the capital city of Mogadishu on Monday, in a move to fortify diplomatic relations and expand counter-terrorism efforts.
The high-level meeting focused primarily on strengthening ties and enhancing Finland’s ongoing support for Somalia, especially in areas recently liberated from the extremist group al-Shabab.
Prime Minister Barre emphasised the need to provide support for residents in these liberated zones, where government forces are actively working to remove al-Shabab’s influence. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our nationals in these regions. We’re committed to reclaiming territory and restoring a sense of normality for our people,” Barre said in a press release.
In a statement following the meeting, Ambassador Tapiola praised the Somali government for its dedication to combating extremism. “Finland remains committed to supporting Somalia both in governmental capacity and direct aid to its people during this pivotal period,” Tapiola said.
The talks come against the backdrop of a sweeping military operation, termed an “all-out war,” initiated by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in August 2022. The operation is currently in progress in the Galmudug and Hirshabelle states.
Halqabsi News
