The situation in Somalia represents a range of challenges related to the humanitarian and socio-economic conditions, governance, human rights, security and terrorism, as well as regional stability. We recognize that there are no easy answers and seek to ensure that our engagement can adapt to the constantly changing dynamics inside Somalia. To address the   challenges, the international community must support the consolidation of representative and effective governance in Somalia, capable of addressing the   needs of the Somali people as well as   common   international   objectives. The Transitional Federal Charter and Institutions provide a legitimate and viable framework for the continued process of re-establishing governance in Somalia.

In order to achieve greater coordination and continuous international engagement to effect positive political developments in Somalia, we have formed an International Contact Group on Somalia. The International Somalia Contact Group will meet at capital level and reinforce our collective efforts in the region. The goal of the International Contact Group will be to encourage positive political developments and engagement with actors inside Somalia to support the implementation of the Transitional Federal Charter and Institutions. The Contact Group will seek to support efforts, within the framework of the Transitional Federal Institutions, to address the humanitarian needs of the Somali people, establish effective governance and stability, and address the international community’s concern regarding terrorism. There is an urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance and improved protection for the civilian population. All parties should give unrestricted access for relief agencies to vulnerable communities. Members will include the European Union, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Tanzania, the United Kingdom and the United States. Other interested states and representatives, such as the United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the League of Arab States will   be invited to participate as observers. The International Somalia Contact Group may broaden its membership or seek other consultations modalities in close consultation with regional groups. We will reach out to Somali and regional parties for advice and information sharing. The Contact Group will address the way forward for enhanced multilateral engagement with the Somali Transitional Federal Institutions and other actors inside Somalia. The Contact Group expresses its strong support for the existing Coordination and Monitoring Committee (CMC), as the mechanism for the overall co-ordination of the international community’s support to Somalia. We will seek to build upon existing positive relationships with Somali actors, including through the CMC, in encouraging inclusive dialogue and reconciliation in accordance with the Transitional Federal Charter. We will work with the UN, AU and IGAD, in encouraging the sustained process of inclusive dialogue and reconciliation between the Transitional Federal Government and all Somali parties and we look forward to further progress in the ongoing political process, including with respect to Mogadishu and the need for improved security.  

Done at New York, 15 June 2006*

*The 15 June meeting convened at the Permanent Mission of Norway to the United Nations included the European Union (Presidency and Commission), Italy, Norway, Sweden, Tanzania, the United Kingdom and the United States. The UN and the AU participated as observers.

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