Somalia Peace and Security

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, October 12, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/– The Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), at its 337th meeting held on 11 October 2012, was briefed on the latest developments in Somalia by the Commissioner for Peace and Security and the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Commission for Somalia. Council also listened to presentations by the representatives of Somalia, as well as Ethiopia, as chair of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

Council noted with satisfaction the remarkable progress made in Somalia over the past few months. In this regard, Council commended the Somali people and stakeholders for having successfully completed the Transition, with the election of a new Federal Parliament and a new President. Council welcomed the appointment by the President of a new Prime Minister, and looked forward to the early formation of an inclusive and competent cabinet, including a fair gender balance, to steer Somalia forward in the post-transition period.

Council also paid tribute to the Somali National Security Forces (NSF) and the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) for the significant gains achieved on the ground, noting that all major and strategic cities in Somalia, especially Mogadishu, Afgowe, Baidoa, Marka and Kismayo, are now under the control of the NSF and AMISOM. Council also reiterated its appreciation to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs) for their commitment to the promotion of lasting peace, security and reconciliation in Somalia. Council noted with satisfaction that AMISOM was about to reach its UN Security Council authorized-strength of 17,731 uniformed personnel.

Council applauded IGAD for its unwavering commitment to the quest for peace, security and reconciliation in Somalia. In particular, Council paid tribute to the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi for his tireless efforts as Chair of IGAD. Council welcomed the communiqué of the meeting of Ambassadors of IGAD Member States held in Addis Ababa, on 5 October 2012. Council expressed its appreciation to the United Nations, the European Union and its Member States, the League of Arab States, the US and other AU partners for their support to AMISOM and the political process in Somalia.

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Article courtesy of Horseed Media.

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