Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to support stability and development efforts in Somalia.

Aboul Gheit’s remarks came as he met, on Tuesday, with Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mohamed Abdirazak Mohamud.

According to a statement issued by the Arab League General Secretariat, the meeting addressed all developments in Somalia. It also reviewed the efforts made by the federal government to establish security and stability, and to advance the development and economic recovery in the country.

The meeting additionally discussed the role played by the Arab League in support of Somali state institutions, to enable them to overcome the challenges they face.

Aboul Gheit assured the Arab League’s commitment to continue its efforts to support all that enhances security and stability in Somalia, and enables it to combat the threat of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.

He noted the importance of implementing the country’s priorities; economic reform and development programmes, including dealing with foreign debt.

Aboul Gheit also called for continued constructive dialogue between various Somali parties, in a way that strengthens the country’s national unity. It is hoped that this will lead to a broad national consensus to hold the postponed elections at the earliest opportunity.

The statement added that the Somali Foreign Minister voiced his appreciation for the efforts of the Arab League and its member states in support of Somalia, its institutions, and its people.

He expressed his aspiration to increase the Arab support for the country, especially at this important stage in its transition.