By: Jama Farah, Horndiplomat contributor
United Nations Special Representatives to Somalia James Swan Arrived in Hargeisa erliear Thursday, Envoy Swan meets with Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi and cabinet members, civil society group representatives and political party leaders of.
The Envoy Swan visit was part of his regular outreach to stakeholders on developments in Somaliland.
Envoy James Swan speaking to media today on initiatives aimed at building mutual confidence and fostering dialogue between Hargeisa and Mogadishu.
“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.”Said Envoy SWAN
The activities in #Hargeisa today of @UN envoy James Swan included meeting President Musa Bihi Abdi and cabinet members, civil society group representatives and political party leaders – the visit was part of his regular outreach to stakeholders on developments in #Somaliland. pic.twitter.com/3et224SPwj
— UNSOM (@UNSomalia) January 9, 2020
UN Special representative James Swan has welcomed the new initiatives aimed at building mutual confidence and fostering dialogue between Somaliland and Somalia.
“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.”
The UN envoy has also called the government to respect freedom of speech and the ability of political parties to organise and function.
“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.”Envoy Swan
Meanwhile, The united nations special representative has welcomed the recent efforts to address longstanding disputes in Sool and Sanaag.
“We have noted positively recent efforts to address longstanding disputes in Sool and Sanaag — including the aftermath of the 2018 Tukaraq fighting — through dialogue and constructive approaches to ease tensions and reduce the risk of further conflict. We urge that these efforts be maintained and reinforced.”Swan
The UN ENVOY has promised that the united nations committed to continuing engagement with Somaliland and many programmes in support of its people.
“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.”Said Amb James Swan
