Kampala(Mogadishu24)-The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, signed the Treaty of Accession for Somalia to join the East African Community on Friday.

President Mohamud described this as a historic moment, reiterating Somalia’s commitment and objectives to strengthen economic, social, and political ties for the development of the East African region.

“Today is a moment of immense pride as I sign the Treaty of Accession of the Federal Republic of Somalia into the EAC. We are united in our pursuit of shared objectives and committed to strengthening economic, social, and political ties for the accelerated development of our region,” President Mohamud said.

He underlined the importance of this agreement in increasing the region’s global relevance and strengthening the fight against terrorism.

“Somalia’s geostrategic significance will elevate the community’s global relevance. Progress against Al-Shabaab, recovery of vast lands, and recent milestones in international relations showcase our commitment and determination,” he said.

The President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, stated that the goal of the EAC is to bring prosperity to the people of the countries that are part of this organization.

“It is my pleasure to host and witness the signing of the accession of the Federal Republic of Somalia to the East African Community (EAC). So, I welcome Somalia and congratulate it. I thank the Chairman of the Association and the President of South Sudan, Mr. Salva Kiir, and the EAC Secretariat for choosing Uganda to host this historic event,” President Museveni said.

The Secretary-General of the EAC, Peter Mutuku Mathuki, welcomed the Treaty of Accession signed by Somalia, describing it as a step forward that makes the region larger, more powerful, and united.

The East African Community, established in 2000, includes the countries of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, the Republic of Congo, and Somalia—the eighth country to join. It is headquartered in the city of Arusha in Tanzania.

The EAC member countries collaborate in economic, security, political, and cultural fields, with plans for a common currency and unified regulations on imports and citizens in the near future.

Somalia’s accession to the EAC brings its longest coastline in Africa and nearly 20 million citizens to contribute to the region, making the community’s population reach around 320 million people.