There is a moment in great assemblies — a pause between the formalities and the handshakes — when the weight of history seems to settle softly on the shoulders of those gathered. In the corridors of the African Union’s 39th Ordinary Session, such a moment emerged this morning as H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, sat down with H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, for a bilateral encounter that carried the quiet promise of continued partnership.
The exchange began with a shared acknowledgment of Somalia’s recent election to the African Union Peace & Security Council, a milestone that reflects Somalia’s deepening engagement in continental affairs and its growing contribution to the collective deliberations on peace and security across Africa’s broad landscape. In congratulating President Mohamud, the Chairperson underscored the unity that binds countries seeking stability and cooperation in a world that often calls for both.
Their conversation flowed gently from recognition to resolve. The Chairperson reaffirmed the Union’s steadfast support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, framing these principles not simply as diplomatic phrases but as the foundation upon which nations build lasting peace and shared futures. In this narrative of mutual respect, history and aspiration intertwined: the past experiences of struggle and resurgence, and the present efforts to forge paths toward holistic progress.
Persistent issues — not least the funding constraints that affect the AU Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) — were acknowledged with a thoughtful urgency. Both leaders gently underscored the value of addressing resource gaps that influence operational effectiveness and civilian protection, while also nurturing the idea that cooperation must extend from dialogue into action.
President Mohamud conveyed appreciation for the African Union’s unwavering and principled backing throughout Somalia’s peace, stability, and state‑building journey. In his reflective words, Somalia’s readiness to continue working closely with the African Union was not simply an expression of diplomatic courtesy, but of shared commitment to a vision where resilience is cultivated through enduring cooperation.
There was recognition too of inclusive political dialogue and preparations underway for forthcoming elections, gestures toward sustainable peace that require patience and broad participation. These exchanges — lightly woven with appreciation and purpose — echoed a central theme: that progress is seldom a solitary journey, and that partnership carries both reassurance and responsibility.
In gentle terms, the bilateral meeting today highlighted both leaders’ determination to strengthen collaboration, advance joint priorities, and sustain momentum on peace and stability efforts that matter deeply to their citizens and the continent at large
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Source Check Credible mainstream/niche sources exist and support the topic:
African Union (AU Press Release – official AU site) African Union (AU News) Somali National News Agency (SONNA) Hiiraan Online Press release explaining AU‑Somalia bilateral interactions