By Andrew Wasik
NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - The East African Community (EAC) on Friday officially embraced Somalia as its eighth member state during the 23rd ordinary summit of EAC heads of state.
In a communique by the EAC Summit of Heads of State, the regional bloc said that, the leaders from the region agreed to admit "the Federal Republic of Somalia as the 8th Member of the EAC in accordance with Article 3 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the EAC".
The summit held in Arusha, Tanzania, saw leaders from member states endorsing Somalia's entry.
A statement from the Somali Planning, Investment and Economic Development Ministry Somalia welcomed the decision, saying: "Today marks a significant milestone in our historical quest for economic prosperity as Somalia officially joins the East Africa Community."
Somalia's accession to the EAC is anticipated to bring benefits for both the nation and the region at large. One key advantage is the expansion of the market, offering economic opportunities for all member states.
Additionally, Somalia, grappling with security challenges posed by terror groups like Al-Shabaab, sought the support of regional states to enhance security measures.
The Somali government has expressed its aspirations to work closely with fellow EAC member states in the fight against terrorism and to strengthen regional security efforts.