U.S Secretary of Defense and Somali President discuss military cooperation amid reduction of AU forces

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U.S Secretary of Defense and Somali President discuss military cooperation amid reduction of AU forces

WASHINGTON (HORN OBSERVER) – U.S Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a meeting in Washington to discuss military cooperation aimed at countering the threat posed by al-Shabaab in Somalia, as conf

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U.S Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III poses for a photo with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud before a meeting at the Pentagon, June 21, 2023. | PHOTO Credit/ Pentagon.

WASHINGTON (HORN OBSERVER) – U.S Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a meeting in Washington to discuss military cooperation aimed at countering the threat posed by al-Shabaab in Somalia, as confirmed by Pentagon Press Secretary Pat Ryder.

President Mohamud has been in the United States, seeking Western support amidst the ongoing drawdown of African Union forces in Somalia.

During their meeting, Secretary Austin and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed significant developments in the defense relationship.

"Secretary Austin lauded Somalia’s current offensive and the sacrifices the Somalis have made to the counter al-Shabaab fight,” said Ryder.

Both leaders agreed on the need for international coordination and support as the Federal Government of Somalia prepares for the withdrawal of African Union forces and the security transition.

Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation with regional partners. He expressed the Department’s commitment to working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia in coordinating efforts with allies and partners to advance shared interests, particularly in countering al-Shabaab.

Although President Mohamud has been advocating for the lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia, citing the need for additional weaponry to combat al-Shabaab, the U.S. defense officials did not address this matter in their press release.

An escalating violence perpetrated by al-Shabaab, as well as inter-clan conflicts across various regions of Somalia has resulted in a significant number of civilian casualties and forced displacements.

The corrupt and weak federal government, confined to Mogadishu, is grappling with internal opposition from multiple member states, exacerbating the crisis within the country.

However, the Pentagon Press Secretary, Pat Ryder, reiterated Secretary Austin’s appreciation for Somalia’s ongoing offensive and the sacrifices made by the Somali people in countering al-Shabaab.