Bujumbura, Burundi(Mogadishu24)-Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Salah Ahmed Jama, addressed the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) summit on behalf of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, emphasizing Somalia’s commitment to regional integration, economic growth, and peace.

Jama conveyed President Mohamud’s greetings and praised Burundi’s role as a key troop-contributing country to the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), acknowledging the sacrifices made by Burundian forces in Somalia’s peace efforts.

He congratulated the newly elected COMESA leadership, expressing Somalia’s support for advancing a shared vision of prosperity within the region.

Highlighting Somalia’s recent achievements, Jama outlined the nation’s transformative approach under President Mohamud, including democratic reforms, constitutional finalization, and progress in security and economic stability.

He announced Somalia’s plans for upcoming elections based on the one-person, one-vote model, a historic step for the country.

On security, Jama noted Somalia’s progress in reclaiming territories from Al-Shabaab, signaling a future where Somali forces take full responsibility for the nation’s security. In terms of economic development, he highlighted Somalia’s potential in agriculture, fisheries, and energy, with the recent arrival of Turkey’s Oruc Reis vessel marking the start of oil and gas exploration in Somali waters.

Jama addressed regional challenges, reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity in light of recent tensions over Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening intra-COMESA trade and infrastructure, including transport, digital, and energy networks, to enhance economic resilience and security across the region.

In closing, Jama reiterated Somalia’s dedication to COMESA’s goals and urged members to bolster economic cooperation amidst global challenges affecting the continent’s growth.