What is the top agenda of Somali president's visit to Qatar?

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Security and development top the agenda of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's trip to Qatar, a state visit which was authorized by Emir Tamim Bin Hamad, who has been instrumental in steering Somalia's redemption agenda since the collapse of government at least three decades ago.

The country is struggling to stamp authority on her internal security which has been challenged by surging Al-Shabaab attacks, targeting civilians, senior government officials and security officers across the country. The country is also straining to feed millions of people following drought and subsequent floods.

Hassan Sheikh arrived in Doha on Tuesday and was received by Qatar's Minister of Culture, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al-Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Somalia Abdullah bin Salem Al Nuaimi, and Charge d'Affairs at the Somali Embassy to the State of Qatar Ruun Said Korshel.

Through a memorandum of understanding, Somalia announced the enhancement of bilateral ties with Qatar, with a special focus put on fostering collaboration in business diplomacy, trade, investment, and cultural events across the two countries.

Somalia and Qatar have been having a cordial relationship for decades, with Doha directly investing in Somalia through various collaborations. This is the second time Hassan Sheikh is visiting the Middle East nation which has been scrambling for various interests in the country.

Hassan Sheikh, Somalia affirmed, will put a special focus on investment and the economy of the country, with also the education sector set to feature. Somalia is keen to improve her education system which was dismantled after the ouster of military leader Siad Barre, whose administration was accused of triggering civil war in the country.

Two months ago Mohamud had meetings with Emir Tamim Bin Hamad and former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, who has since relocated to Doha. Farmajo's administration heavily depended on grants from Doha, which was at one point accused of interfering with Somalia's internal politics.

Hassan Sheikh is also looking for security partnerships as he pushes for the elimination of Al-Shabaab terrorists who are facing rough times in the country. The second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab has been activated with Somalia asking for support from various countries globally.

GAROWE ONLINE