Somalia: Puntland President reaches Norway

OSLO, Norway- The President of Somalia’s northeastern regional administration, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali “Gaas” has reached Oslo city, the capital of Norway on Tuesday at start of European tour, Garowe Online reports.

A delegate led by President Ali is scheduled to make tour to Norway, Finland and Sweden before returning back to Garowe, to meet with Puntland Diaspora communities in Europe.

Minister of Planning, Shire Haji Farah, Chief of Staff, Abdinasir Sofe and other officials are reported accompanying the President during his visits to those European countries.

Upon arrival to Oslo, Puntland delegate was welcomed by Diaspora community at Oslo's Airport and the President addressed them briefly saying; “I thank you for your warm welcome. We will meet together in a bigger event and we will have a thorough discussion.”

President Ali’s tour comes following the conclusion of London conference last week hosted by UK government and attended by Somali leaders along with international partners and donors.

This not the first time that Puntland President has spent long oversea trips during his tenure, however, it coincides amid controversial plans to expand the state Parliament.

GAROWEONLINE