Qatar is our true friend, says Somalia PM Hamza Abdi Barre

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The government of Qatar has frequently stood with the people of Somalia on humanitarian and development-related issues, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has said, noting that the gulf nation has never abandoned the Horn of Africa nation at a time of need.

Barre, who spoke to Qatar News Agency, said the country has always given Somalia support in various incidents, adding that when stability is regained in Mogadishu, Doha will be remembered for the significant role it has played as "brother in deeds".

For years, Qatar has been a close partner of Somalia on all fronts, including helping the country tackle violent extremism through material and emotional support. For several years, Qatar has been helping the country initiate development projects besides fighting violent extremism in the country.

Barre noted that Somalia does not see Qatar as a mere partner, but rather a strategic ally and reliable friend. Barre asserted that Somalia works to solidify the existing cooperation with Qatar at the bilateral level and looks forward to expanding this cooperation to encompass significant fields such as education and culture, the agency reports.

Qatar, he added, has expressed interest in massive investments within Somalia's vast coastline, which stretches up to 3,330 kilometers and remains underutilized. The oil-rich coastline, if explored well, can sustain Somalia's diminishing economic growth.

He said the relationship between the two countries witnessed remarkable progress during the past years, adding that his visit confirms the commitment to deepening partnership in all fields to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Arab and Islamic nations.

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have been having interests in Somalia, at times translating to sharp political divisions in the country, but since Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took over, the situation has subsided. Qatar was previously accused of spearheading anarchy in the Horn of Africa nation.

Both Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and President Hassan Sheikh have been visiting both the UAE and Qatar to push for development cooperation. Somalia is fighting Al-Shabaab militants who have wreaked havoc in the country for the last 16 years, but have recently started losing ground.

GAROWE ONLINE