Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s Ministry of Defence has confirmed holding a high-level meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Richard H. Riley, in Mogadishu. The meeting, seen as a reaffirmation of the longstanding security partnership between the two nations, marked one of the first official engagements for newly appointed Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi.
According to a statement from the Ministry, the discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in counterterrorism, particularly in the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants. The two sides reviewed current operations, explored avenues for increased collaboration, and reiterated mutual commitment to regional stability and national security.
Minister Fiqi expressed appreciation for the United States’ enduring support to Somalia’s security forces. He acknowledged Washington’s critical role in military operations across southern and central Somalia, where U.S. assistance includes capacity building, logistical support, and precision airstrikes targeting extremist hideouts.
“The United States remains a vital partner in Somalia’s security architecture,” Minister Fiqi stated. “We are committed to strengthening this collaboration as we intensify operations to liberate areas still under terrorist control.”
Fiqi’s appointment as Defence Minister comes amid a broader cabinet reshuffle initiated by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, aimed at revitalizing government responses to persistent security threats. A seasoned politician and former National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) director, Fiqi brings substantial experience to the role at a pivotal moment for Somalia’s national defense strategy.
On his first day in office, Fiqi emphasized the importance of reinforcing ties with international security partners, including the United States, Turkey, and the European Union. His meeting with Ambassador Riley signals the administration’s intent to enhance cooperation with key allies as Somalia prepares to assume greater responsibility for its own security following the gradual drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The United States continues to play a central role in Somalia’s stabilization and defense reform efforts, maintaining a strategic presence through military trainers, special forces advisors, and drone capabilities. In recent years, U.S. support has been instrumental in degrading militant networks and enabling Somali forces to reclaim territory from insurgent control.
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