Mogadishu, May 12 (QNA) - Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between his country and the European Union (EU), especially in supporting the Somali armed forces, which contributes to combating armed groups and piracy, and enhancing security and stability at the national and regional levels.

This came during the minister's participation in the dialogue sessions between Somalia and the EU, which focused on issues of peace, stability and security.

In his speech, the Somali minister reviewed the developments in military operations against armed groups, the security challenges in the region, and the Somali government’s vision for restructuring and developing defense institutions, especially during the transition phase related to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

He explained that the Somali Armed Forces, with the support of local forces and international partners, have intensified their operations in the central and southern parts of the country, with the aim of weakening the capabilities of armed groups, securing residential areas and strategic roads, and expanding state authority and stabilization efforts.

The minister stressed that the security transition process is based on full Somali leadership, military readiness, accountability mechanisms, and ongoing reforms in defense institutions, including force management, payroll, and verification and monitoring systems. (QNA)