US-EU Joint Statement on Somalia

US-EU Joint Statement on Somalia

"The United States and the European Union welcome Somali efforts to conclude an agreement on the relocation of the Somali Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia, including the efforts of the Somali parties to facilitate demilitarization in Mogadishu, which should be incorporated into a national plan as soon as possible.

"The Somali reconciliation process is at a critical stage. There is an urgent need for a viable agreement on relocation and security endorsed by the Transitional Federal Institutions. In order for this process to succeed, the Somali people, through the Transitional Federal Institutions, must make their own decisions regarding how best to relocate to Somalia and begin the gradual process of establishing governance.

"The European Union and United States urge all Somali parties to continue their efforts towards reconciliation and dialogue and quickly come to an agreement that will facilitate the relocation of the Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia.

"The European Union and the United States also welcome the visit of Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Ghedi to Mogadishu. This visit represents a positive step forward in the reconciliation process. We deeply regret, however, the incident of May 3rd at Mogadishu Stadium during the Prime Minister’s visit and we extend our condolences to the families and relatives of the victims."

SOURCE: state.gov 2005/504 Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 11, 2005