Puntland has signed a security deal with Galmudug as the two semiautonomous regions of Somalia embark on a fresh era of stronger relations.
On Saturday, President Said Abdullahi Deni of Puntland inked a security agreement with President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qoorqoor in Galkayo.
The two leaders planted a tree together to symbolize the signing of the deal between their respective governments and regions.
Puntland and Galmudug have been hit hard by Al-Shabaab, which has increased its attacks in the two regions in the recent past.
President Qoorqoor was visiting Puntland officially for the first time since winning the elections pitting him against his predecessor Ahmed Duale.
Furthermore, the two regional leaders admitted that security is an important issue; hence, the need for signing the agreement that makes their regions safe for all.