by WorldTribune Staff, December 6, 2018
The United States on Dec. 4 said it has restored a “permanent diplomatic presence” in Somalia for the first time since clan warlords overthrew the ruling government and ignited civil war in 1991.
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“This historic event reflects Somalia’s progress in recent years and is another step forward in formalizing U.S. diplomatic engagement in Mogadishu,” the State Department said in a statement.
A degree of stability in the capital, Mogadishu, has drawn investment from Somalis at home and abroad, according to a Reuters report.
In September, the World Bank approved $80 million in grants to Somalia to fund public finance reforms, the first disbursement to the country in 30 years.
Outside of the capital, however, the al-Shabaab terrorist group, which has links to Islamic State (ISIS), maintains a strong presence.
The United States carries out periodic airstrikes in Somalia in support of the UN-backed government and its fight against al-Shabaab.
“Our return demonstrates the United States’ commitment to further advance stability, democracy, and economic development that are in the interest of both nations,” the State Department said.
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