International Groups to Discuss Somalia’s Future

Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah

Representatives from more than 30 countries together with regional and international organizations will be meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia starting 17th December, to discuss concrete measures to support the Somali Government and the implementation of the Djibouti Agreement. Speaking today in Nairobi, United Nations Special Representative for Somalia, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, who chairs the ICG, said the time has come for the international community to take stock of the progress made and to lay down clear and tangible steps to have a peaceful Somalia.

“We now have a credible partner in the Somali Government to work with in re-establishing the elements of governance and to put in place a foundation for strengthening stability. The International Community must seize this opportune moment to provide immediate and urgent support to the Somali Government,” added Ahmedou.

The Meeting which is organized by the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) is expected to bring likeminded leaders to help Somalia’s Transition Federal Government led by Sheik Sharif Ahmed, to pave way for restoration of peace and rebuilding of the lives of the people. “Any assistance provided now is much more valuable than it will be in the future because it will allow this Government to fully engage in establishing stability and to begin rebuilding the nation. In essence, support now will guarantee a future later,” Ahmedou further added.

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