By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
MOGADISHU — A handshake between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and senior opposition leaders stole the spotlight on Thursday as Somalia’s political and diplomatic leadership gathered at the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence, one month after clashes between government forces and opposition militias.
The reception brought together President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, diplomats and other distinguished guests in a rare gathering of Somalia’s political leaders.
Addressing US Chargé d’Affaires Justin Davis, President Mohamud thanked the US Embassy for hosting the celebration and congratulated the government and people of the United States on behalf of Somalia.
“Somalia greatly values its longstanding relationship with the United States, a relationship that has grown steadily over many decades through mutual respect, cooperation and shared interests,” the President said.
He acknowledged U.S. support in strengthening Somalia’s national institutions, advancing economic reforms, promoting development and supporting efforts to achieve lasting peace and security.
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The President said the partnership between the two nations is becoming increasingly forward-looking. While cooperation on security remains essential as Somalia continues its fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS and strengthens its national security institutions, he said the shared agenda now extends well beyond security.
He highlighted growing opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, technology, infrastructure and the blue economy, adding that Somalia is implementing legal and institutional reforms to strengthen governance and create a more competitive environment for business and investment.
President Mohamud also described the Somali-American community as one of the strongest links between the two nations, saying its contributions in business, education, public service and innovation continue to reinforce the friendship between the two peoples while supporting Somalia’s state-building and modernization efforts.
The President concluded by congratulating the United States on the anniversary of its independence and expressing hope that the celebration would inspire continued progress, prosperity and cooperation in the years ahead.