Press Statement, Tom Casey,   Deputy Spokesman

Washington, DC July 25, 2006 – The United States calls on the Somalia Transitional Federal Institutions and the Islamic courts to recommit to a process of positive and peaceful dialogue, which began in Khartoum on June 22. The United States further calls on both parties to recommit to the seven principles of the June 22 agreement in light of recent provocations and military expansion.

The seven points of that agreement include:

1) recognition of the legality of the Transitional Federal Institutions;

2) recognition of the reality of the Islamic courts;

3) continued talks without preconditions;

4) commitment to try war criminals;

5) an end to antagonistic propaganda and hostilities;

6) a joint call for peace; and

7) continuing discussions on security, politics, and other obstacles to peace through the establishment of technical committees.

The United States reiterates its support for the establishment of a functioning government that incorporates all elements of Somali society. The United States stresses that this objective can only be achieved through broad-based dialogue that includes all key stakeholders in Somalia, such as civil society, women’s groups, business leaders, clan leaders, in addition to the Islamic courts and Transitional Federal Institutions.

The United States urges all of Somalia’s neighbors to avoid any actions that might prevent Somali parties from continuing this dialogue; however, neither the Islamic courts nor the Transitional Federal Institutions should use external actors as an excuse to avoid further discussions.

All Somali parties should immediately cease any hostile action, avoid further inflammatory rhetoric and accusations, and demonstrate their commitment to peace through continued dialogue.

2006/710

Released on July 25, 2006

Source: State Department, July 25, 2006