WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of State announced that they will reestablish a permanent diplomatic presence in Somalia. The United States has not had a permanent diplomatic presence in Somalia since the closure of the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu on January 5, 1991. The United States officially recognized the Federal Government of Somalia in 2013.

“The Somali community in Minnesota—the largest in the country— has contributed so much to the cultural and economic vitality of our state. While significant challenges remain toward achieving security and stability in Somalia, the reestablishment of a permanent diplomatic presence will strengthen our relationship with the Government of Somalia.”

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