Stockholm, Sweden, December 1, 2007 (SL Times) – The Swedish Agency for Development has declared its intention to undertake development projects in Africa in general and Somaliland in particular.

This news was recently reported by the Scandinavian based television network, STVE, in a special programme featuring officials from the Swedish ministries for Overseas Co-operation, scholars from Africa and local social activists.

Mr. Aidarus Sheikh Aden, who is involved in Swedish/Somaliland development affairs met on Thursday, November 22, 2007 with the Swedish minister for International Development, Mrs. Gunilla Carlsson.

According to Mr. Aden, "the reason for the meeting was primarily to discuss Sweden's plans for upcoming development projects in Africa, in which a strong emphasis will be based on good governance, democratization, social development and, in particular, the inclusion of women in the social and political arena, human rights and the environment ".

Mr Björn Blomberg who is the chairperson of the Swedfund International was also present at the meeting. Mr. Blomberg stated that "Swedfund is ready to take greater role in the expanding the role of commercial opportunities in Africa".

Mr. Blomberg, it has been reported, placed a major emphasis in his remarks, on Swedfund's intention to undertake projects which will assist commercial endeavors in both Somaliland and Somalia. The chairperson of Swedfund, Mr. Bjorn Blomberg encouraged the participants in the meeting to formulate ideas and projects that are feasible and would play a greater role in the development of their respective nations.

Mr. Aidarus Sheikh Aden, took the opportunity during the meeting to give a presentation of the projects currently underway in Somaliland. Mr. Aden stated that Swedfund’s new proposals are a welcome development and will challenge Somalilanders to continue the co-operation between the two countries.

Somaliland is one of the progressive nations in Africa, with strong democratic institutions and a free press. Somaliland is often referred to as " Africa’s best kept secret". There have been strong developments in the Swedish/Somaliland relationship, with Sweden currently exploring the options of providing aid to Somaliland directly, rather than through other organizations such as the EU or Non-governmental organizations.

Source: Somaliland Times