As delivered
Thank you, Mr. President.
Let me begin by extending my great appreciation for the very warm welcome that I have received today from you and your cabinet ministers. I am only on day five of my time in Somalia, but this is my second time in Somalia. I was actually here in 1993 during the original UN Mission. So, it is a great pleasure to be back.
I've had my meeting with His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mahmood, President of the Federal Republic [of Somalia]. He received me as I presented my credentials, and I'm now spending my time trying to visit the various Federal Member States.
Today, we've been discussing a number of important topics, most important of which was the very successful local elections held here in 30 districts on the 25th of May. And I extended my congratulations. This is a major step forward in Puntland's march towards democracy, and it also showcases a way forward for other parts of Somalia. I hope the remaining three districts can complete their local elections, including here in Garowe.
Secondly, the president and I discussed the very serious humanitarian situation following the displacement of 100,000 people, given the conflict in Laascaanood and the wider Sool region. I thanked the president and his team for extending their support to those displaced. And I noted his request for the UN and international partners to do more to support the serious humanitarian situation.
Finally, we discussed the ongoing state-building and peacebuilding project across Somalia, and I was very pleased to hear the president's very clear commitment to dialogue, playing his part in the journey as we create and complete the constitutional review process. And I extended the full support and good offices of the UN to try and help find a way forward as soon as possible. Because, with a solid state across Somalia, we'll be able to focus on the crucial issues of economic development and job creation for youth — things that will enable Somalia to play a rightful part in the region as a prosperous and stable Somalia.
This is the first of what I hope will be many visits. And I want to thank again the president and his team for welcoming me so warmly.
Thank you very much.