Nairobi, 12 March 2008 - The United Nations Special Representative for Somalia, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah has welcomed the announcement by Somalia’s transitional government that it is ready to talk to, and is nominating a team to lead the discussions with the opposition.

“I particularly welcomed the fact that President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, Prime Minister Nur Hassan Hussein, the Speaker Sheikh Hassan Madobe and the Transitional Federal Government have officially confirmed their desire and commitment to discuss peace and stability without conditions,” said Mr Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah.

“Their brothers in the opposition, civil society organizations and the diaspora have repeatedly expressed to me the same desire to join the discussion for peace and reconciliation. I am sure that the friends and neighbours of Somalia will encourage this commitment taken by the parties

“I have no doubt that all Somalis and their concerned friends, governments and organizations will support this move and that everyone would refrain from any action that might hinder these important steps.

“As requested by the Somali parties, I will assume the leadership role and will contact all sides to propose the timing and modalities for future discussions.”

istic in the wake of the discussions.

“The tone of the meetings was positive. I was happy to hear strong reaffirmation that we share a common goal of reaching those most in need, wherever they are, as well as a common understanding that security must be improved for us to achieve that goal. But serious difficulties remain.”

  Last week the RC/HC visited the Afgooye corridor on the road out of Mogadishu, where more than 200,000 people are living in camps after fleeing violence and insecurity in the capital.   The latest meetings come just over a week before the UN Security Council meets in New York to debate Somalia.

“Aid organizations on the ground want to see member states come together and help create better conditions for their vital work.   We could achieve a lot more for Somali people if conditions were safer.”