MOGADISHU, Somalia — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has congratulated Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election, offering his wishes for a successful second term and calling for closer cooperation between the two countries.
In a message released by Somalia’s presidency, Mr. Hassan Sheikh said he looked forward to strengthening cooperation with Zambia on bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Mr. Hichilema was declared the winner of Zambia’s Aug. 13 presidential election after securing about 60 percent of the vote, according to the Electoral Commission of Zambia. His closest challenger, Brian Mundubile, received about 38 percent.
The election, however, was followed by political tensions and allegations of irregularities. The opposition has indicated that it plans to challenge the result in court, while international observers raised concerns over aspects of the electoral process.
For Somalia, the congratulatory message signals an interest in expanding relations with Zambia beyond bilateral ties to include cooperation on broader regional and international issues.
Mr. Hassan Sheikh wished Mr. Hichilema success during his second term and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries.
The message comes as African governments continue to respond to the outcome of Zambia’s election, with regional leaders offering congratulations to Mr. Hichilema and expressing interest in closer cooperation with his administration.
