MOGADISHU — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has received former Senegalese President Macky Sall at Villa Somalia as part of Sall’s diplomatic efforts to seek support for his candidacy for the position of United Nations Secretary-General.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed Somalia-Senegal relations, regional cooperation, and Sall’s campaign for the UN’s top diplomatic post. Sall reportedly assured President Hassan Sheikh that he would continue to support Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity if elected to lead the United Nations.
The former Senegalese leader requested President Hassan Sheikh’s support and cooperation in his bid to become the next UN Secretary-General, emphasizing his commitment to strengthening peace, stability, and cooperation among nations.
Macky Sall served as President of Senegal from 2012 until 2024 and played a prominent role in West African diplomacy during his time in office. He also served as Chairperson of the African Union in 2022–2023, giving him extensive experience in continental and international affairs.
His visit to Mogadishu comes as candidates seeking the UN Secretary-General position begin engaging with member states to secure political backing ahead of the selection process.
President Hassan Sheikh’s meeting with Sall highlights Somalia’s growing diplomatic engagement and its role in discussions surrounding major international positions. Somalia, as a UN member state and an active participant in international diplomacy, holds a vote in the process of selecting the next Secretary-General.
The UN Secretary-General is elected by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council, making support from both regional and global partners crucial for any candidate seeking the position.
Sall’s campaign is expected to focus on his experience in governance, African diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international cooperation as he seeks to succeed the current UN Secretary-General.
