On an official working tour, the UN Envoy to Somalia has today paid an official visit to Somaliland. The delegation from the United Nations led by Ambassador Swan are in Somaliland to discuss areas of mutual interest, including democratic progress, UN funded programs, good governance and the general security in the Horn of Africa. The two sides also discussed issues pertaining the local and parliamentary elections schedule. In his remarks on the election process, Amb. Swan said, “We encourage rapid progress to complete all necessary steps for Somaliland to hold parliamentary elections in 2020. We welcome the inter-party dialogue and urge implementation of the recent agreements that would enable preparations for elections to be held in 2020. We call on Somaliland authorities to ensure respect for freedom of speech and assembly, as well as the ability of political parties to organise and function. Such political space is essential for a credible process.”
As part of his regular outreach to Somaliland, Ambassador Swan said, “I last visited Hargeisa six months ago. I intend to continue to visit regularly for discussions with senior officials as well as non-governmental actors on developments in Somaliland. The United Nations maintains a full-time office in Hargeisa and implements a wide range of programmes to benefit the people of Somaliland”.
RESUMING TALKS WITH SOMALIA
Ambassador Swan reiterated the need to resume talks between Hargeisa and Mogadisho. “The United Nations welcomes initiatives aimed at building mutual confidence and fostering dialogue between Hargeisa and Mogadishu.We believe there are many areas in which greater cooperation could improve security, promote economic growth, and improve the lives of the people”, said Swan.
UN ROLE IN SOMALILAND
UN Envoy delineated that the United Nations are committed to engagement of Somaliland in many sectors. Addressing on this issue, Swan said, “We are committed to continuing United Nations engagement with Somaliland and our many programmes in support of its people. With 16 United Nations offices, agencies, funds, and programmes active in Somaliland, our support covers a wide range of governance, security, development, and humanitarian programmes. As examples, the UN’s work includes support to primary schools, equipping teachers with the skills and materials to provide a sound basic education. We provide assistance to internally-displaced people and refugees in Somaliland, fleeing conflict elsewhere or forced to move by drought. We support the rule of law, policing and the justice system. The UN’s work is diverse, but the common thread is that it aims to make a practical and positive difference to the people and public services of Somaliland”.
