Sunday February 2, 2025

Somali Police Chief Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi meets with UK Ambassador to Somalia Mike Nithavrianakis in Mogadishu to discuss strengthened cooperation on security and counter-terrorism efforts, February 2, 2025. 

Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s fight against terrorism during a high-level meeting between Somali Police Chief Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi and UK Ambassador Mike Nithavrianakis in Mogadishu on Sunday. The talks centred on expanding cooperation to counter militant threats posed by Al-Shabaab and ISIS while improving the capacity of Somalia’s police force.Major General Asad praised Britain’s role in training and equipping Somali police, describing its contributions as critical to recent security gains in Mogadishu. He called for deeper collaboration to sustain and build on those efforts. “The UK’s support has been vital, but the fight is far from over. Strengthening our partnership will help us face emerging threats head-on,” Asad said.Ambassador Nithavrianakis commended Somali police for their progress in stabilizing the capital and reducing violent incidents in recent months. “We recognize the important strides Somalia has made in protecting its citizens. The UK will remain a steadfast partner in ensuring that these gains are not lost.”

The meeting also included Deputy UK Ambassador Sam Thomas, Defense and Political Secretary Natasha Hosford, and Counter-Terrorism Secretary Dan O’Byrne. 

Britain has long been one of Somalia’s key European allies in security cooperation.

Despite recent security improvements, particularly around the capital, challenges persist, with Al-Shabaab continuing to stage deadly attacks. 

The Somali government, with backing from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has prioritized strengthening national security forces to combat extremist groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS.