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NATO Summit Underway: Higher Spending Takes Center Stage The NATO summit has officially commenced, highlighting the urgent need for increased defense spending among member nations. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, the phrase “We must invest in our security” resonates more than ever. Leaders from across the alliance are gathering to discuss not only financial commitments but also strategies to bolster collective security. "In times of uncertainty, unity and strength are paramount," noted one official, echoing the…

Opposition, Dissent, and the Tension in Somali Politics Mogadishu (AX) — In the bustling heart of Somalia's capital, a profound conflict is thrilling the political landscape. Dr. Mohamed Aden Koofi, the Secretary General of the Somali Salvation Forum, has made some striking accusations aimed directly at the federal government. In a time when unity is vital, how precarious is the balance between power and opposition? On Monday, in a press conference brimming with urgency, Koofi recounted an unsettling incident from his…

Somalia's President Confronts Political Challenges and Militancy Threats as His Term Nears Its End MOGADISHU, Somalia - As President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud enters the twilight of his current term, the challenges before him are mounting in complexity and urgency. Each day presents a fresh set of obstacles in his quest to bring about stability, development, and unity in Somalia. Despite repeated promises, these goals remain elusive, leading to growing criticism of his leadership. With the 2026 elections on the horizon, many…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a notable Wednesday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened a significant meeting at Villa Somalia, inviting esteemed figures from Somalia's political landscape, including former presidents, prime ministers, and parliamentary speakers. This gathering was not merely a formality; it represented a pivotal moment in defining Somalia’s political future. This assembly was part of the ongoing National Consultation Forum, an initiative designed to foster dialogue and build consensus on fundamental national…

US President Donald Trump has labeled the intelligence report concerning the impact on the Iranian nuclear program as "inconclusive." However, he hinted that the damage inflicted could be "severe." In his words, "The intelligence was very inconclusive. It says we don't know. It could've been very severe. That's what the intelligence suggests," he told reporters just before attending the NATO summit. "It was very severe. There was obliteration," he added. Earlier, Mr. Trump dismissed reports from US media that suggested the…

Mogadishu (AX) — On a significant Tuesday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed a delegation from the European External Action Service (EEAS), a meeting that took place within the historic walls of the Villa Somalia Presidential Palace in Mogadishu. Leading this delegation was Jonas Jonsson, the Director for Africa, whose experience and insights pave the way for constructive dialogue between Somalia and the European Union. The essence of this encounter centered around fortifying the multifaceted partnership shared…

Somalia: President Hassan Sheikh Eases Position, Meets with Opposition Leaders MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a country where political landscapes shift as swiftly as the winds, a remarkable scene unfolded as opposition leaders briskly walked through the gates of Villa Somalia. Their destination: a confidential meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Could this encounter herald a pivotal breakthrough in Somalia’s enduring political impasse? It certainly appears possible. The atmosphere surrounding this meeting is charged…

Image source Somalia has reached a remarkable epoch in its economic narrative. On December 13, 2023, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank confirmed that Somalia had reached the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) completion point. This milestone facilitated a dramatic reduction of external debt, from a staggering 64 percent of GDP in 2018 to below 6 percent by the end of 2023—an accomplishment that translates to an impressive $4.5 billion in debt relief. The momentum didn't stop there. In early 2024,…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a pivotal meeting on Tuesday, the Somali Minister of Defense, Ahmed Macalin Fiqi, engaged with the Chinese Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu, in the bustling capital city of Mogadishu. The primary focus of their discussion was a reinforced partnership in defense, particularly emphasizing collaborative efforts to counter the persistent threat posed by al-Shabab, a militant group with ties to al-Qaida. During the meeting, the dialogue flowed with an unmistakable urgency. Both leaders recognized the pressing…

Tánaiste Simon Harris has condemned Hungary for what he termed an "appalling act" for its ongoing obstruction of Ukraine's entry into accession talks with the European Union. During a session with the Oireachtas Foreign Affairs Committee, Harris expressed his discontent, stating, "Shame on them." Looking ahead, he emphasized that one of Ireland's key priorities during its six-month presidency of the EU next year will be to facilitate Ukraine's accession, noting that some nations have been "knocking on the door for far too…