The Secretary-General met yesterday with H.E. Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, to discuss progress in Somalia and the way forward.

The Secretary-General congratulated the President for his election and leadership. He noted with satisfaction the efforts achieved through the recovery of new areas from Al-Shabab insurgents and the need to continue the efforts and sustain support to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the Somali Forces. He encouraged the Government to strengthen its political authority. He also encouraged dialogue and cooperation with Somaliland and Puntland. He echoed concerns over human rights, particularly sexual violence against women, and urged the Government to give priority to respect for human rights and protection for women and children. They discussed the future UN presence in Somalia and the need for a greater presence on the ground and coherence among the UN family to help the Government deliver on its most important priorities, notably in the areas of security, the judiciary as well as public and financial management.