By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia in the coming days for high-level talks focused on regional security and the preservation of Somalia’s unity, officials said.
According to Somali government sources, the visit will center on discussions aimed at countering what Mogadishu describes as aggressive actions by the United Arab Emirates and strengthening diplomatic cooperation on the issue.
Saudi Arabia is regarded by the Somali government as a key ally in defending Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. Officials say Riyadh considers any attempt to recognize Somalia’s northwestern region, commonly referred to as Somaliland, or to allow foreign military or political presence there without Mogadishu’s consent as a “red line.”
The Somali government has repeatedly rejected any moves that could undermine the country’s unity, particularly amid heightened regional and international attention following recent diplomatic developments involving Somaliland.
After his visit to Saudi Arabia, President Hassan Sheikh is also expected to travel to Egypt, another close ally of Somalia, officials said. Cairo has historically supported Somalia during periods of political instability and is seen as a strategic partner on issues related to regional security and Arab-African cooperation.
The planned visits come at a sensitive time for Somalia, as the federal government seeks to rally regional and international support against actions it views as threats to national sovereignty and long-term stability.
