Hague: 'There Is An Opportunity' To End Piracy And Terrorism In Somalia

Nairobi, Kenya, Feb 4, 2012 – William Hague has hailed a historic opportunity to end piracy and terrorism in Somalia after a landmark visit to the war-torn nation.

"I came away confident that there is an opportunity for the world to help Somalis achieve the better future they deserve," said Mr Hague, the first British foreign secretary to visit the anarchic nation for two decades.

"Recent political and security gains in Somalia mean there is a historic opportunity to turn a corner in the country and to lay the foundations for greater stability in the long-term," he said.

Britain considers Somalia a direct threat to its security. There are fears that British nationals have joined the al Qaeda-linked Shabaab insurgents who are fighting to topple the weak Western-backed government in Mogadishu.

Pirates in central and northern Somalia have also kidnapped Britons, holding them and other foreigners hostage for ransom.

"We need more effective action to disrupt the terrorism and piracy which are such a serious threat to international security and the lives of people, including British nationals," Mr Hague said.

He called for "better coordination of international aid" as well as greater support for the 10,000-strong African Union force, which is protecting the embattled government from Shabaab attacks.

Mr Hague also praised Kenya after Nairobi sent troops and tanks to attack Shabaab positions last October.

"We are very appreciative of the role Kenya has played and recognize how Kenya has been in the front line," he said.

"We have the challenge of working closely together on Somalia... It will be very difficult, it is full of danger."

Shabaab insurgents control large parts of central and southern Somalia, but are facing increasing pressure from government forces and regional armies.

** Mr Hague spoke as the UN declared the famine in Somalia is over. An exceptional harvest after good rains and food deliveries by aid agencies have ended the wave of hunger - for now.

The UN warned that conditions remain fragile and could worsen.

Source: The Telegraph

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