The President of Puntland, Said Abdullahi Deni, has held talks with senior United States officials on the political and security situation in Somalia, with discussions focusing on counterterrorism efforts, development and bilateral cooperation.
President Deni, accompanied by Puntland Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor, received the American delegation at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday.
The delegation was led by Justin Davis, the acting US ambassador to Somalia, and included senior officials from United States Africa Command> (Africom), among them Col. Shane Jones, commander of US Special Operations in Africa.
According to Puntland officials, the meeting reviewed the broader situation in Somalia, particularly issues relating to security, politics and development. Discussions also focused on the country’s ongoing political transition and Puntland’s role within it.
The two sides further explored ways to strengthen cooperation between Puntland and the United States, especially in the areas of security, investment and the development of natural resources. Officials discussed opportunities linked to mining, fisheries and oil exploration in Puntland.
During the talks, Ambassador Davis praised Puntland’s recent military operations in the Al-Miskaad mountains, where regional forces have been conducting operations against armed groups.
He also commended what he described as Puntland’s progress in security and governance, while reaffirming Washington’s support for efforts aimed at strengthening security, expanding social services and promoting economic development in the region.
The meeting was attended by members of Puntland’s Council of Ministers, senior presidential officials and government advisers.
