Nairobi, 1 March 2007 - Kenya and the United States US are working closely to ensure that peace and stability returns to the war torn Somalia, the US ambassador to Kenya, Michael Ranneberger has said.

Responding to questions from journalists at a Garissa hotel, Ranneberger said Kenya and the US are playing a leading role in trying to bring peace and security in Somalia.

The ambassador disclosed that his government has provided 40 million dollars financial assistance to Somalia while Kenya has hosted several meetings between the warring parties with a view to reconciling warring factions.

He noted that Kenya was very curial to the Somalia peace process due to its location and proximity, adding that over the years Kenya has suffered as a result of hosting the Somalia refugees.

He however pointed out that the peace process is going to be long elusive and called on other nations to support the transitional government so that its influence can be felt on the ground.

Source: KBC | HRNet