UN
16 Mar
2010
SRSG: Somalia moving steadily from failed to fragile state
Nairobi, 15 March 2010 – The United Nations Special Representative for Somalia, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah today commended the Transitional Federal Government and Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jama'a for formally signing an agreement at the African Union Headquarters that commits the two parties, in the spirit of the Djibouti Agreement, to fully cooperate towards peace and reconciliation.
"I congratulate the signatories for reaching an agreement in the interest of the Somali people and the nation, in the interest of their dignity and towards peace in the region. The Agreement is a success for both parties and demonstrates that things can, and are changing in Somalia," Mr Ould-Abdallah said.
The agreement was reached within the framework of the Djibouti peace process, following-up from a declaration signed between the Government and Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jama'a on 21 June 2009 in Nairobi under the aegis of the United Nations.
"I will reiterate what I have said before, that I firmly believe that Somalia is moving from a failed to a fragile state. I am convinced that more rapprochement between the Somalis will soon follow. The old barrier built against stability in Somalia is slowly being brought down.
"I wish to express appreciation to the African Union, the League of Arab States, the European Union, Norway and the United States for their important role. That acknowledgement extends to IGAD Member States and especially to the Ethiopian Chair for their commitment and efforts in this undertaking.
"In thanking all the parties and those who assisted, I invite all the friends of Somalia to adapt to an emerging reality-- the rebirth of the Somali State."
