MOGADISHU (SD) -The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, ruled out any dialogue between the federal government and Al-Shabaab.

In a recent speech at a joint parliamentary session, President Hassan Sheikh emphasized that the Somali government is committed to defeating Al-Shabaab militarily, instead of engaging in dialogue with them.

He stated that the government has achieved significant victories against Al-Shabaab in the ongoing conflict, reclaiming many territories that were previously under the control of the extremist group.

The President highlighted the need for global support to counter Al-Shabaab and mentioned that international partners could provide assistance in various forms, including food, medicine, and military training, but ruled out sending combat troops.

Hassan Sheikh said that since the government started fighting al-Shabaab on its own, it liberated more than 80 regions. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to disrupt the financial networks of Al-Shabaab.