Monday October 9, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre met with the Ambassador of Finland to Somalia, Pirkka Tapiola, in Mogadishu on Monday to discuss cooperation and relations between the two countries and enhancing Finland's support for Somalia.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Barre emphasized the significance of supporting the residents in liberated areas and regions where government forces are striving to free them from al-Shabab's control.
Ambassador Tapiola commended the Somali government for its dedication to eradicating militants and affirmed Finland's ongoing commitment to supporting both the government and the Somali people.
In August 2022, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud launched a comprehensive military operation against al-Shabab, referred to as the "total war," which is currently underway in Galmudug and Hirshabelle States. The federal government's second-phase military operation, known as "Black Lion," will focus on the West and Jubaland states in the country's southern region.
Federal government leaders seek additional funding to provide essential government services such as schools, hospitals, and infrastructure development for the residents in recently liberated areas.