Quint Meeting in Washington D.C. Prioritizes Somalia’s Path Towards Stability and Security

On October 1, 2024, representatives from the United States, Qatar, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom met in Washington, D.C., along with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), for the seventh meeting of the Somalia Quint. The meeting underscored the international community’s commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity, while addressing regional security concerns.

The Quint partners reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening Somalia’s security apparatus. In alignment with this objective, they expressed support for the FGS’s efforts to build professional and accountable security forces. This commitment is crucial as Somalia continues to combat the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups in the region. The focus on coordinating international training will enable Somali forces to operate more effectively, while fostering the country’s ability to independently manage its own security needs in the long term.

A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion around transitioning from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to a new African Union Stabilization and Support Mission. The Quint acknowledged the urgency of finalizing plans for this mission, emphasizing the need for collaboration with stakeholders, including troop-contributing countries. Ensuring Somalia’s security forces are well-prepared for this transition is vital for maintaining the gains made in stabilizing the country. The international partners also highlighted the necessity of securing sustainable funding options for this mission to guarantee its success.

The Quint also emphasized the importance of integrating governance, humanitarian efforts, and stabilization planning into military operations. This holistic approach reflects Somalia’s ongoing efforts to foster not just military gains but also enduring governance structures that promote peace and development. Such an integrated strategy will play a critical role in consolidating military successes into long-term societal stability.

As Somalia works towards securing its future, this meeting reinforced the strong international partnership backing the country’s development.