US reopens embassy in Somalia after 28 years

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia, has reopened after being closed for 28 years, officials said Wednesday.
"The reestablishment of Embassy Mogadishu is another step forward in the resumption of regular U.S.-Somali relations, symbolizing the strengthening of U.S.-Somalia relations and advancement of stability, development and peace for Somalia and the region," the embassy said in a statement.
The embassy closed on Jan. 5, 1991, after Somalia became engulfed in a civil war and the regime of Siad Barre was overthrown.
The United States reestablished a permanent diplomatic presence in Mogadishu back in December, operated out of Nairobi, Kenya.
“Today we reaffirm the relations between the American people and the Somali people, and our two nations," Ambassador Donald Yamamoto said. "It is a significant and historic day that reflects Somalia’s progress in recent years, and another step forward in regularizing U.S. diplomatic engagement in Mogadishu since recognizing the federal government of Somalia in 2013."
"U.S. Embassy Mogadishu will act to enhance cooperation, advance U.S. national strategic interests and support our overall security, political and economic development goals and objectives," the ambassador added.

The U.S. "remains a strong partner to Somalia in its effort to build a stable, credible, and democratic country," the embassy said.

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