The Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, arrived in Mogadishu on Sunday, where he was honored with a state dinner at the Presidential Palace. The event was attended by Somalia’s top leadership, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister, Speakers of both Houses of Parliament, ministers, lawmakers, and other senior government officials.
In his address, Youssouf reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia on its path to self-sufficiency and stability, following three decades of hardship and conflict.
He also expressed strong endorsement of President Hassan Sheikh’s two key priorities:
- The fight against terrorism
- The implementation of universal suffrage (one-person, one-vote) elections
“These priorities are crucial for Somalia’s future, and as long as I am the Chairperson of the African Union, our support will not waver. Somalia is on the right path toward democratic elections,” Youssouf declared.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, in his response, expressed gratitude for the African Union’s continued backing and emphasized Somalia’s role in contributing to the broader African agenda. He highlighted the deep political and historical ties between Somalia and Djibouti, stating that the two nations are brothers in policy and cause.
“Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Somalia pledges to stand by you in fulfilling your continental responsibilities. Having someone who understands Somalia’s struggles at the helm of the AU is a great advantage,” President Mohamud remarked.
