(Mecca, Horseed Media) President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) on Saturday during an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The meeting took place at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca, where MBS spent the last 5 days of the holy month of Ramadan. President Mohamud and his delegation, including Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defense and Finance, discussed a range of issues with the Saudi heir apparent.
According to a statement from the Somali President’s office, talks focused on the regional situation, strengthening cooperation between the two nations, economic matters like investment and trade, as well as defense and security. Somalia’s unity and independence were also discussed.
The Saudi Kingdom reaffirmed its support for a unified and independent Federal Republic of Somalia during the meeting. Mogadishu claims Riyadh condemned a recent agreement allowing Ethiopia to conduct of Somalia’s maritime territory adjacent to the breakaway region of Somaliland. However, Saudi state media did not mention this alleged condemnation.
Improving ties with Saudi Arabia, a key Arab ally, is a priority for President Mohamud following his election last year. The two nations have long-standing relations in areas like security, counterterrorism and development assistance for the Horn of Africa nation.
HORSEEDMEDIA
