Somalia has reaffirmed its solidarity with Djibouti as it marked its 45th Independence anniversary.
The Speaker of Lower House, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur reaffirmed Somalia’s solidarity with Djibouti “on this great day”.
“Today Djibouti is not only celebrating the end and defeating of colonial rule, but it has also achieved huge milestones in social, financial and infrastructure sectors in the last 45 years,” the speaker’s office noted in press release.
The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, sent a message of congratulations to his Djibouti counterpart Ismail Omar Guelleh, on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of independence.
“Our brothers and sisters in Djibouti, you are a shoulder we rely on. We share a history and culture. We appreciate your role in rebuilding Somalia’s statehood,” the president said in an official statement.
Djibouti gained independence from France on 27 June 1977.
Djibouti forces serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) yesterday marked their country’s 45th Independence anniversary at the contingent headquarters in Beletweyne, Hirshabelle State.
Presiding over the ceremony, Djibouti ATMIS contingent commander, Colonel Hassan Jama Farah paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the struggle for independence.
“Today we reflect on their sacrifices; many died, the property was lost and others were expelled from their homes. Their struggle led to our freedom,” said Col Hassan.
The deputy chairperson of finance and politics in the Hiiraan region, Abukar Abdullahi Maadey, hailed the support by ATMIS Djibouti troops to the community to degrade Al-Shabaab.
“The Djiboutian troops have a special place in our hearts. We have an excellent relationship, they provide security and humanitarian aid in times of need,” said the deputy chairperson.
The ceremony was attended by the ATMIS Sector Four commander, Colonel Humad Ahmed Mohamed, local leaders, and representatives from the civil society.
