RIYADH — Saudi Arabia's government is following with "great concern" the recent developments in Somalia, which have reportedly seen people killed and wounded at the capital Mogadishu, the Foreign Ministry said on Saturday.

According to reports, several people were killed and injured amid armed clashes between government forces and armed protesters.

In a statement, Riyadh urged "calm and de-escalation," calling on Somalis to reach a "solution by peaceful means through dialogue in a way that preserves the security, stability and unity" of the country.

GCC too expresses concern

The Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Dr. Nayef Falah Mubarak Al-Hajraf too expressed concern over the tragic incidents, in the Federal Republic of Somalia, resulting in deaths and casualties, in the capital city of Mogadishu.

He urged for keeping restraint and solve the disputes by peaceful means, through negotiations and constructive dialogue to reach a comprehensive national consensus, in order to contribute to consolidate security, stability and development, in Somalia.

He expressed utmost condolences and consolation to the families of the victims, wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

UAE govt calls for restraint

In Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates expressed its grave concern over the deteriorating situation in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, as a result of ongoing violence and the excessive use of force against civilians.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation called upon the interim government and all parties to demonstrate the highest levels of restraint in order to achieve Somalia's aspirations to build a secure and stable future for all.

The UAE affirmed its support for all international efforts and initiatives to conduct transparent and fair elections on the specified date and urged Somali parties to join hands to confront the threat of terrorism and extremism.

The UAE expressed its hope that stability would prevail in Somalia in a way that preserves its national sovereignty and fulfills the aspirations of its brotherly people. — Agencies