Mogadishu (SD) – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo today hosted an Iftar dinner for some Somali businessmen at the Presidential Palace.

The President praised the businessmen for their role in developing the country’s economy, strengthening job opportunities for youth and rebuilding infrastructure.

The president pointed out that the government has succeeded in reducing public corruption and nepotism, paying salaries of staff and soldiers which strengthened the confidence of Somali businessmen in the country’s financial system.

“Somali business people are a strong supporters of the government in providing basic services, maintaining the rights of workers and the military, the Volunteer Program for rebuilding public facilities and infrastructure, and at the forefront of rescuing the public in difficult times. Your sense of patriotism and your humanitarian role is well known to the people and government of Somalia.” said President Farmajo.

For their part, the businessmen briefed the President on the impacts COVID-19 pandemic had on trade and economic activities in the country, their commitment to peace as the basis for business growth and to advancing fruitful plans to rebuild the country.

The meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance of the Federal Government of Somalia Abdirahman Duale Beyle, the Minister of State for Trade and Industry Abdulkadir Sharif Sheikhuna Maye, the Somali Chamber of Commerce and the Deputy Director General of the Presidency Abdinur Mohamed Ahmed.