By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Belgrade, 1 September 2026 - Somalia called for stronger multilateral cooperation to tackle global challenges, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urging countries to strengthen dialogue and mutual understanding.
Speaking at a Non-Aligned Movement meeting in Belgrade on Tuesday, Hassan Sheikh said member states faced major security, economic, social and political challenges that require long-term vision and resources beyond national borders.
Countries in the movement represent nearly half of the world's population, he said, but many still face domestic obstacles to development compounded by geopolitical tensions, wars, economic crises and the unequal effects of climate change.
He also cited international terrorism and insecurity as major challenges at regional and global levels.
Hassan Sheikh said challenges facing countries were increasingly interconnected, making cooperation essential.
"If cooperation in 1961 was an aspiration and a vision, today it has become an indispensable obligation," he said.
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Somalia's experience demonstrates the importance of solidarity and effective multilateral action, he said, adding that Somalia had chosen a path of stability, economic reform and social development after nearly three decades of conflict.
He stressed the principles underpinning the Non-Aligned Movement, including respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, justice and equality, and peaceful settlement of disputes.
Somalia, a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council, is working to uphold those principles, he said.
Respect for international law and the U.N. Charter, together with a stronger multilateral system, will be critical in addressing political and economic uncertainty, he said.
The president called for unity despite differences in development levels, saying cooperation among developing countries could advance peace and prosperity.
"Difference is a strength we possess," he said.