UK pledges humanitarian support in Somalia
MOGADISHU, Somalia - The United Kingdom [UK] has pledged more humanitarian support in Somalia, following flush floods which have left over 33 people dead and thousands displaced, after two major rivers; Shabelle and Juba broke their banks due to heavy rains.
In a meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, UK ambassador to Somalia Mike Nithavrianakis said London will continue working closely with Mogadishu in humanitarian response to flooding after the Horn of Africa nation requested support.
In addition, the ambassador further said the UK will closely work with the country on matters of security and economic development, noting that there is a need for both countries to continue with close partnerships on all fronts. The UK is a major security and economic partner of Somalia.
"An excellent discussion with HE Hassan Sheikh Mohamud covering the full range of bilateral issues and current developments, including the humanitarian response to flooding, security updates, and economic opportunities," he said.
Village Somalia appreciated the partnerships between Somalia and the UK while insisting that the two nations will have close working relations which dates back centuries. Somalia welcomed the support of humanitarian aid which is desperately needed to salvage the lives of thousands of people..
"President Hassan Mohamud held a meeting with British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis. The discussion focused on enhancing the UK-Somalia strategic partnership, addressing the impact of El Niño, and preparations for the upcoming Global Food Summit."
So far, 33 people have died following flush floods in the country with 500,000 others displaced. The government of Somalia has dispatched boats and soldiers to affected areas to assist in search and rescue missions, with the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs [OCHA] also assisting victims.
GAROWE ONLINE