President Mohamud emphasizes need for Somalia to join EAC
GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal Government of Somalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has emphasized the need for Somalia to join the East African Community (EAC) saying this will benefit the country both economically, politically and in security matters.
The president on Thursday welcomed the verification report on Somalia’s application by East African Head of States which was reviewed and deliberated at the 21st extraordinary summit held in Bujumbura Burundi on May 31st.
“The adoption of the verification report is a noteworthy milestone and testament that Somalia is ready and well equipped to join the EAC. Somalia will be a great addition to the EAC sisterly countries and contribute to the integration and the prosperity of the region,” a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reads.
The president said that his government has initiated moves to join the bloc saying that this reflects the progress made by Somalia in restoring its role as a key player in the region.
He thanked leaders from member states and the technical committee for supporting and facilitating efforts by Somalia to join the bloc and enable Somali people to join their brothers and sisters in the region.
Somalia plays a pivotal role in the region having the longest coastline in Africa which will bring under control the Horn of Africa coast line that is abundantly rich in fisheries.
Somalia’s long Indian Ocean/Red Sea route that links the EA region to the Arabian Peninsula which is seen as a vibrant economic zone.