Brussels, 28/08/2012 (Agence Europe) - Speaking in Mogadishu on Monday 27 August, where she met Somali leaders and members of the new federal parliament invested on 21 August (see EUROPE 10672), Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, reiterated her call for a swift completion of transition as well as for adoption of the new government's work plan. On that occasion, she also gave her assurance to the Somali people that the EU would provide it with its unfailing support. Ashton seized the opportunity provided by her visit to meet Lieutenant General Gutti, who commands the military component of AMISOM (African Union mission in Somalia), and the special representative for the United Nations secretary general in Somalia, Ambassador Mahiga.
“The ending of Somalia's transition will bring with it the prospect of lasting peace, prosperity and stability for the country and for the millions of people who have suffered from 20 years of conflict. It is an occasion the EU warmly welcomes. It is essential the transition is completed swiftly. The new federal parliament must finalise the process as soon as possible to fulfil the aspirations of all Somalis. The new institutions must then immediately embark on efforts towards stabilisation in all accessible areas in the country. This is crucial to the future of a viable federal Somalia. The people of Somalia must be assured of good governance, transparency, accountability, justice and respect for their rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of worship”, said Ashton after talks in Mogadishu. Underlining the need to achieve reconciliation and development, she urged “Somali leaders to act swiftly, decisively with integrity and in the interests of the Somali people”. (AN/transl.jl)