The United States and Somalia have restored diplomatic relations for the first time in more than 20 years. After meeting with President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud spoke to VOA’s English to Africa reporter Mariama Diallo.
He said the official recognition of the state of Somalia by the U.S. is significant, and will have a great impact as his nation moves forward. He also addressed the recent uptick in violence across the continent, the French hostage situation in his country and what he expects from the Somali diaspora.