During a visit to Somalia on Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for “major international support” for the East African country, which is facing its worst drought in decades.
“I am here to sound the alarm that massive international support is needed because of the humanitarian challenges facing the country,” Guterres told reporters at a joint press conference with President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud.
He added that Somalia faces humanitarian challenges while dealing with a serious terrorist threat.
When Guterres arrived at the main international airport, he was greeted by the Somali foreign minister and UN officials. Due to Guterres’ visit, much of Mogadishu was closed, while public transportation was restricted.
Guterres thanked Mahmud for his warm welcome and said he looked forward to breakfast later in the day.
Mahmoud Guterres also thanked him for his historic visit and said, “This visit assures us that the United Nations is fully committed to supporting our plans to build the state and stabilize the country.”
Food security experts say life remains “extremely critical” for more than 6 million people starving in Somalia’s worst drought.
Source: “Associated Press”
Source: Arabic RT