GAROWE, Somalia Oct 10,2014 (Garowe Online)-Federal Government of Somalia’s Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed has arrived in Puntland capital of Garowe on a three-day official visit for the first time since being appointed to the post in December 2013 on Friday, Garowe Online reports.

Puntland leader Abdiweli Mohamed Ali, Vice President Abdihakin Abdullahi Haji Omar Amey, cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, traditional leaders and cheering crowds clad in state and national flags received Mohamed at Garowe International airport where he inspected guard of honor by Puntland Defence Force (PDF) unit.

On arrival at the airport, a motorcade carrying Prime Minister Mohamed’s delegation crawled into the state capital.

Speaking at a joint press conference with President Ali at Puntland State House, Mohamed expressed pleasure over his trip to Puntland.

Mohamed’s Predecessor Abdi Farah Shirdon and Former Puntland President Abdirahman Farole agreed on a 7-point agreement in March 2013 in which Puntland endorsed to award Mogadishu-based Federal Government’s quota on revenue being generated from airports and ports.

Nevertheless, Puntland has repeatedly accused Mogadishu of failing to properly uphold Provisional Federal Constitution (PFC) and honor sharing of foreign aid as well as intelligence, implementation of Universal Tariff System, formation of  theUpper House and neutralization of Somali National Army.

Mohamed is being accompanied on his visit to Puntland by First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Mahad Ahmed Awad, ministers and Federal MPs.

President Hassan speaks on trip

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said in a press statement from his office ahead of Prime Minister’s trip that Puntland is a visible icon for the ongoing federalization process.

“I and the Prime Minister firmly believe that a united and a peaceful Somalia could come into being when we speak with one voice and unite our ideas and efforts in line with the national interests,” said Mohamud.”Puntland is a role model in the federalization process”.

Though the leading pioneer in the northeastern part of country cut off ties with Mogadishu in a bitter feud over the formation of Federal state in central Somalia on July 31, Mohamud expressed hope about the future relations.

During his stay, Prime Minister Mohamad will join Puntland people in marking the founding day of Somalia flag on October 12. 

GAROWE ONLINE