Somalia: Puntland President arrives back to Garowe

GAROWE, Puntland- The President of Somalia’s northeastern region of Puntland, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali “Gaas” is expected to arrive back to the capital Garowe, following series of foreign trips to China, Ethiopia and Kenya, Garowe Online reports.

President Ali will be received by cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, elders and members of the civil society upon his arrival to Garowe’s Airport.

Ali is set to speak to the media and give details on the outcomes of his trips that took more than two weeks. However, in the past Ali repeatedly stated that his trips focused mainly on promoting economy, infrastructure and security in the region, but so far he didn't disclose the time when those projects will kick start in the region.

Puntland leader visited China last month and was reported that he made several agreements with representatives from Chinese-based companies.

He was criticized for his numerous international trips causing a strain on the state budget amid worsening drought conditions and fighting with ISIS. 

His arrival to Garowe city, coincides with the absence of Puntland Vice President and Parliament Speaker who are attending the National Leadership Forum in the Somali capital of Mogadishu, to discuss with representatives from the international community about the delayed Somali electoral process in the regional state and forthcoming Presidential election that was rescheduled for the fourth time to December 28.

GAROWEONLINE