Brussels, 15/02/2016 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 15 February, the European Union reaffirmed its commitment to support the development and stability of Somalia beyond 2016, and confirmed its intention of extending the mandate of the three military and civilian missions -EUTM Somalia, EUNAVFOR and EUCAP Nestor - within the country and the Horn of Africa.
The conclusions adopted by the European foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday 15 February express this dual objective.
Stressing the role played by the 'Compact for Somalia' launched in Brussels in 2013 by the international community and the Somali authorities to ensure coordinated support for inclusive political dialogue, security, the rule of law and the socio-economic development of the country, the EU stresses the importance of renewing this 'compact' beyond 2016 “whilst preserving its essential elements”.
The EU will continue to work closely with the Somali authorities, the United Nations, the African Union and the Inter-Governmental Authority for Development (IGAD) and all other players, and awaits the high-level ministerial partnership forum on Somalia, to be held in Istanbul, which will assess the next steps, according to the conclusions.
The EU welcomes the progress made at political level in the country and stresses that 2016 is a “critical year to consolidate this political progress”.
The security and stabilisation of the country remain a key priority and a prerequisite for the sustainable construction of the State and the development of Somalia, the conclusions state. The EU firmly condemns all terrorist attacks perpetrated by Shebab, including those carried out against AMISOM (see EUROPE 11470). It recognises the progress made by the national army of Somalia and AMISOM in restoring peace and security in Somalia and in fighting Shebab, but stresses that the security situation remains volatile. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)