13/06/2008 (Agence Europe) - The EU welcomes the agreement reached on 9 June in Djibouti between the Somali federation transition government (GFT) and the Alliance for the re-liberation of Somalia (ARS) with a view to cessation of hostilities during a 90-day period and adoption of all necessary measures to ensure humanitarian assistance and free access to the disaster-struck population. In a declaration published on 11 June, the Slovenian Presidency “notes the request to the United Nations, of both parties to the Agreement, to authorise and deploy an international stabilisation force”. In a press release published the same day, Louis Michel, Development and Humanitarian Aid Commissioner, says that the Djibouti agreement is “just the beginning of a long journey for Somalia on the path towards normality - but it can and must mark a turning-point for this country”. (A.B./transl.jl)