Mogadishu, Somalia – H.E. Bihi Iman Egeh, Minister of Finance, hosted high-level talks in the capital with a UN delegation headed by Ms. Shoko Noda, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, according to Somali National News Agency (SONNA).
Discussions centered on developing advanced strategies to strengthen economic resilience, with Mr. Lionel Laurens, UNDP Country Representative, participating. Ministry sources indicated that the meeting marks significant progress in aligning financial policies with emergency protection needs.
A comprehensive review of current financial indicators took place, examining structural challenges stemming from climate variables, especially drought and flood impacts, and approaches to safeguard economic progress made during Somalia’s financial and sovereign reform journey.
Both sides examined innovative approaches for financing sustainable development projects. SONNA highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships between Somali institutions and UN agencies to maintain growth amid complex environmental challenges.
The Minister of Finance confirmed Somalia’s ambitious vision to convert climate challenges into green investment opportunities, emphasizing that improving financial management efficiency primarily aims to establish social and economic safety nets for populations most affected by natural disasters.
The UN delegation commended Somalia’s strong preparedness in addressing economic crises, reaffirming the United Nations’ commitment to providing technical expertise for risk reduction programs that contribute to the country’s long-term financial stability.
Discussions covered mechanisms to expedite implementation of national economic recovery plans, emphasizing capacity development for national staff in financial emergency management to ensure prompt and effective government responses to future economic or environmental variations.
Both parties stressed the significance of combining international support with local initiatives, noting that transparency in development program implementation is essential for attracting further international investments that benefit Somalia’s productive and service sectors.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to implement outcomes within a defined timeframe, ensuring Somalia’s transition from resilience to sustainable prosperity and realizing the people’s aspirations for stability, welfare, and comprehensive economic empowerment.
This strategic meeting heralds a new era of Somali economic diplomacy that confronts challenges while looking forward with scientific insight. Through its partnership with the United Nations, Somalia demonstrates that determination to overcome climate obstacles can establish a modern, resilient economy prioritizing the dignity of Somali individuals and resource sustainability.