Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud called on Germany to avoid forced deportations of Somali migrants during a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin on Wednesday.

The two leaders discussed migration policies, with a focus on the return of Somalis whose asylum status in Germany has been fully exhausted.

Mohamud stressed the Somali government’s willingness to welcome back its nationals, but he urged that returns be conducted voluntarily.

“There is no need for forced repatriation of Somalis who have lost their right to asylum,” Mohamud’s spokesperson, Farhan Mohamed Jimale, posted on X.

Mohamud assured that those choosing to return voluntarily would be welcomed, offering them a chance to reunite with family, reintegrate into society, and contribute to Somalia’s rebuilding.

The Somali presidency issued a statement saying the talks also covered strengthening diplomatic ties, improving vocational training programs, enhancing security, and expanding mutual cooperation.

President Mohamud is also scheduled to speak at the Germany-Africa Investment Summit, aiming to attract investment for Somalia’s development and economic growth.