ROSEMARY DICARLO MEETS WITH SOMALIA’S PRESIDENT FARMAAJO ON FIRST FIELD VISIT AS UN UNDER-SECRETARY-GENERAL

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General (USG) for Political Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, visited the Somali capital today and held a series of meetings with the country’s leadership to reiterate the UN’s support to the people and Federal Government of Somalia, as well as to discuss issues of mutual interest and priority.

The Under-Secretary-General was welcomed by the President of the Federal Government, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo. During her visit, she was accompanied by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, Michael Keating.

Speaking at Villa Somalia after meeting with the President, Ms. DiCarlo said the aim of her first field visit since her appointment as Under-Secretary-General is to support the ongoing political and peace processes in the country as well as explore how best to assist Somalia to overcome some of its challenges, ranging from the humanitarian situation and security to the political agenda.

The UN official commended the work undertaken by the federal constitutional bodies and the recently held National Constitutional Convention that underscored inclusivity, cooperation, and compromise for the good of the country as critical aspects for finalizing the constitutional review process within this year.

“Somalia is at a critical juncture. Progress on the constitutional review could lead to a breakthrough. Unity of Somalis is essential to advance federalism, reduce violence, defeat extremism, tackle the humanitarian challenges and deliver real benefits to the population,” the Under-Secretary-General added.

The Under-Secretary-General later met with the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Simon Mulongo, and acknowledged the role of the African Union Mission in Somalia, commending its troops and police for their sacrifice and dedication to the security of Somalia.