(15-11-23) MOGADISHU – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Burundi on a crucial one-day business trip, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss Somalia’s integration into the East African Community (EAC), officials said Wednesday.
Mohamud, who received a warm reception at the presidential palace in Burundi, is scheduled to meet with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye. The meeting’s agenda includes enhancing cooperation in the war against the Khawarij, with a focus on the conflict involving Al-Shabaab. Burundi, a key contributor to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), has been instrumental in the regional fight against terrorism.
A significant portion of the talks revolves around expediting Somalia’s accession to the EAC, a step viewed as vital for enhancing regional business and communication links. Ndayishimiye, currently chairing the EAC, holds a key role in this process.
In addition to the presidential dialogues, members of the Somali delegation are set to engage in various discussions with their Burundian counterparts, covering a spectrum of issues from security cooperation to economic partnerships.
President Mohamud expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and the steadfast support of the Burundian people and government, particularly in their commitment to helping Somalia combat Al-Shabaab.
This visit marks a significant stride in reinforcing Somalia’s relations with Burundi and is a critical step towards Somalia’s greater involvement in regional affairs, particularly in the East African bloc.
Halqabsi News
