Brussels, 17/09/2013 (Agence Europe) - They did it! On Monday 16 September, the international community concluded a political, economic and security New Deal for Somalia in Brussels, and pledged to mobilise €1.8 billion ($2.4 billion) over three years to support Somalia's reconstruction plan. The high-level international conference - jointly organised by the EU and federal government of Somalia - has therefore ended successfully (see EUROPE 10922).
This New Deal is a “commitment on both sides to complete Somalia's transformation”, said High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton. “Inclusive politics, rebuilding security, establishing justice institutions (…) are fundamental building blocks that will regain the trust of the people, and strengthen the social and economic foundations of the country”, she said. “I and many other speakers also highlighted the vital role that Somali women must play in this process”, Ashton stated, saying that she was pleased that €1.8 billion had been pledged to support this process.
“We are at a turning point in the history of Somalia. €1.8 billion for development and reconstruction. It's a good figure”, said Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, expressing gratitude to the EU and the international community. He nevertheless called on the international community to “respect its commitments” to help Somalia continue with the “remarkable transformation” under way. “Everything will depend on the way in which a follow-up mechanism is implemented to guarantee that the pledges are kept. We are mutually responsible - it's of prime importance for our common objective of peace. Please, keep your promise”, he said. The reconstruction plan formally adopted on Monday “will help us put Somalia right, and turn our back on the chaos and the piracy - to the benefit of peace, development and long-term security”, Mohamud continued (our translation). Security, judicial reform, the reform of public finances and economic recovery are the priorities around which this plan is focused - a plan approved by the whole of Somali society.
Out of the €1.8 billion pledged, €650 million ($895 million) has been pledged by the European Commission. Several member states, including the UK (GBP 50 million), Sweden, Denmark and Germany also announced contributions. Since 2008, the EU has so far committed €1.2 billion for Somalia. (AN/transl.fl)