UNITED NATIONS: UN Chief Antonio Guterres has reiterated his support and solidarity with Somalis, following bomb attacks and gunfire in the Somali capital, Mogadishu on Friday, saying that he has full faith that Somalis "will not be deterred" in their efforts for lasting peace and political stability.
The Secretary General said in a statement, "The support and solidarity of the United Nations with the people and Federal Government of Somalia in this endeavour."
The statement added that the Secretary General "sends his profound condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured," the United Nations news reported.
The UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) reported that car bombs went off near the capital's Sahafi Hotel on Friday afternoon.
The initial explosions were followed by gunfire, all believed to be carried out by the terrorist group, Al-Shabab.
In its year long fight against the UN and internationally-backed government, the extremist group has targeted places which are frequently visited by officials and the security forces, such as the Sahafi Hotel.
So far, authorities have reported that at least 20 people have been killed, and 17 wounded.
In a statement condemning the attack, UN Deputy Special Representative for Somalia, Raisedon Zenenga, said the agency has faith the terror attacks will not affect Somalia's economic development and security reform.
She said, "The United Nations and the wider international community stand with them."