Brussels, 09/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 8 October, the EU welcomed the fact that AMISOM and the Somali National Army had taken back control of the port town of Baraawe, Somalia, hailing it as a victory over the Islamist militia of Al Shabab.
“Baraawe was the last stronghold under Al Shabab control providing a key source of income from illegal charcoal trade. This is a significant success and an important step for the Federal Government of Somalia towards re-establishing territorial sovereignty”, a spokesperson to the European External Action Service (EEAS) underlined on Wednesday. He went on to state that “the EU reaffirms its support for the federal government and the political process that is rebuilding functioning state institutions and an accountable political system”. Baraawe was liberated on 5 October. (AN)