Antonio Guterres: “We welcome Qatar’s role in mediating Somalia & Kenya”.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres welcomed the efforts of the Qatar government to restore relations with Somalia & Kenya that were cut in December 2020 after the government of Mogadishu accused Nairobi of political and national interference.
In a correspondence note that appeared on the UN official website,the SG recognized the role played by Qatar in efforts underway towards restoring diplomatic relations.

While emphasizing a good level of restoration of political relations, cooperation, dialogue, he hoped the announcements will lead to full restoration of friendly relations which are crucial for stability in the region..

“I welcome the role of the Qatar government in mediation in Somalia and Kenya, is an appropriate step to strengthen diplomacy and political development ….” Antonio Guterres said.

Qatar’s Foreign Minister in an interview discussed his Government’s role in restoring diplomatic relations with neighboring countries in Somalia & Kenya.

The announcement by the two neighboring countries to restore relations comes hot on the heels of a commitment by Kenya and Tanzania to deepen bilateral relations following the recent visit to Kenya by Tanzania president Samia Suluhu Hassan. President Suluhu would later address the joint houses of the Kenyan Parliament.

There was a tense period of relationship between Kenya and Tanzania under the leadership of former president, the late John Pombe Magufu.