Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Director of National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) held a discreet meeting with CIA Director William J. Burns at Villa Somalia to discuss security and regional stability, according to sources close to the discussions.

The talks addressed Somalia’s upcoming transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and focused on the country’s security challenges, as well as rising tensions with Ethiopia over territorial and diplomatic issues.

Director Burns, who made a secretive visit to Mogadishu, is working closely with Somali officials as the country prepares to assume full security responsibility from ATMIS by December. This transition comes despite significant security challenges, with Al-Shabaab remaining an active threat capable of carrying out large-scale attacks.

The meeting follows Burns’ engagement with Kenyan President William Ruto Tuesday, where discussions centered on terrorism, radicalization, and organized crime. President Ruto emphasized the importance of vigilance to maintain stability, peace, and democratic progress in the region.

Burns’ meetings with both Somalia and Kenya underline the United States’ commitment to supporting East African nations in combating terrorism and promoting regional stability amid evolving security concerns.