BOSASO, Puntland – The United States has reaffirmed its support for Puntland’s security efforts, following recent advances in the region’s campaign against ISIS-affiliated militants.
US Ambassador to Somalia Richard Riley, accompanied by Major General Claude Tudor, Commander of US Special Operations Command Africa (USSOCAF), met Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni in Bosaso on Saturday to discuss counterterrorism measures and maritime security.
The meeting comes as Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Somalia, has made significant gains against extremist groups, reclaiming areas previously under militant control and reinforcing protection of strategic shipping lanes in the Gulf of Aden.
In a statement, the US Embassy in Mogadishu highlighted the crucial role of local forces.
“While American capabilities are important, it is local forces on the front lines, leading the charge against threats not just to Somalia, but the wider region and beyond,” the statement said, stressing the need for coordinated regional security.
Puntland authorities have increasingly collaborated with international partners to counter terrorism, safeguard maritime routes, and combat piracy, a persistent threat in the Horn of Africa.
Nevertheless, the visit underscores Washington’s ongoing commitment to supporting Somali-led security initiatives, reflecting broader strategic interests in stabilising the region.
