MOGADISHU — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday held talks with the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, at the Presidential Palace in Mogadishu, where the two sides discussed expanding bilateral security cooperation and intensifying efforts to combat terrorism.
According to the Somali Presidency, the meeting focused on the evolving security situation in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa, ongoing military operations against the al-Shabaab militant group, and ways to strengthen the long-standing security and defense partnership between Somalia and the United States.
The leaders also reviewed joint efforts aimed at improving regional stability, enhancing the operational capacity of the Somali National Armed Forces, and increasing coordination in support of Somalia’s broader security and state-building objectives.
President Mohamud thanked the United States for its continued political, security, and development assistance, describing Washington as one of Somalia’s key international partners. He said U.S. support has played an important role in strengthening the capabilities of Somalia’s security forces and advancing the country’s efforts to restore peace, stability, and sustainable development.
The Somali president reaffirmed his government’s commitment to deepening cooperation with international partners in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that sustained collaboration remains essential to defeating extremist groups and ensuring long-term security across the region.
General Anderson reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Somalia’s security priorities, highlighting continued cooperation in counterterrorism operations, military training, institutional capacity building, and strategic defense engagement. He underscored Washington’s support for Somalia’s efforts to build capable national security institutions and maintain pressure on terrorist organizations that threaten both Somalia and regional stability.
The meeting reflects the enduring strategic partnership between Somalia and the United States, which has worked closely for years to strengthen Somalia’s security sector, support counterterrorism operations, and promote lasting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
