Cabinet commends war against Al-Shabaab, approves pact with Egypt

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The government of Somalia has commended the fight against Al-Shabaab, noting that the local troops with the support of the international partners, have made significant gains in the last three years when the administration declared total war against the group.

The council of ministers chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre noted that there has been considerable progress in the fight against Al-Shabaab while acknowledging the input by the regional forces who are also giving a backup.

The government highlighted the liberation of strategic areas and disruption of militant networks as major achievements in its counterterrorism campaign. The cabinet also lauded troops on the frontlines for their 'unending love for the country'.

“The sacrifices of our security forces and local communities are bringing results,” Prime Minister Barre told the cabinet, stressing the need to sustain momentum through continued investment in troop equipment, training, and logistics.

Somali National Army units, the cabinet said, had worked under the strategy, adding that the gains made would be a catalyst for long-term peace and stability. Protection of the citizens, the team added, has been 'quite encouraging'.

Egypt's cooperation with the government of Somalia was also approved by the cabinet, just ahead of the deployment of close to 1,500 troops who will serve in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Prime Minister Barre underlined that Somalia’s path to recovery depends on both internal stability and robust international cooperation. “Our military successes and growing global partnerships are two sides of the same coin,” he said.

Egypt agreed to support Somalia in her bid for stabilization a move which had angered Ethiopia but after extensive collaboration, a solution was reached. The government of Somalia has been steadfast in eliminating violent extremists from the country.

GAROWE ONLINE