Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud chaired a meeting with leaders from the regional states of South West, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug. According to a press release from the Somali Presidency, the meeting was a precursor to the President’s call for efforts to unite the Somali people in order to intensify operations against the Al-Shabaab and Daesh groups.

The Presidency stated that during the meeting, the leaders discussed the importance of preparing for the upcoming national dialogue called by the President. The purpose of the dialogue is to create a unified environment aimed at tackling the Al-Shabaab and Daesh insurgents. The discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation across all sectors of society to ensure the success of the military efforts.

President Hassan and the regional leaders also agreed that the operations should be based on goodwill and respect for the guidance, experiences, and support of intellectuals, political leaders, and the general public.

“The President and the regional leaders agreed that the operations should be conducted with goodwill, focusing on consideration of advice, examples, and the support of intellectuals, scholars, political leaders, and the broader community,” the statement from the Somali Presidency said.

Support and Challenges

This meeting came a week after President Hassan Sheikh announced plans for a peace dialogue aimed at overcoming the country’s current challenges. The President’s call for dialogue has received widespread support from opposition leaders such as Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, Hassan Ali Khaire, and Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, as well as some regional state leaders like those from Jubaland. They all requested more details on the agenda, timing, and participants of the upcoming dialogue, although some questions remain unanswered.