News Archive

U.S. Welcomes Somali-Led Efforts to relocate the Somali Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia

June 21, 2005

U.S. Department of State
For Immediate Release

The United States welcomes Somali-led efforts to relocate the Somali Transitional Federal Institutions to Somalia.

We note the significant actions taken by members of the business community, non-governmental organizations, and ordinary citizens in recent weeks to facilitate the demilitarization of Mogadishu. In particular, we acknowledge the central role played by Somali civil society in pushing for real and lasting security reform in Somalia.

We are impressed by these individual and collective efforts, led by the women of Mogadishu, to assist those of their countrymen in putting down their weapons and returning to the broad base of Somali society. We are heartened by the sincere desire of the Somali people to facilitate the non-violent return of effective governance to Somalia.

The Somali reconciliation process is at a critical stage. It is imperative that a viable national plan for relocation and security be formally agreed upon by a broad quorum of the members of the Transitional Federal Institutions. This will create the platform from which good governance can be delivered and the Transitional Federal Institutions can earn legitimacy from the Somali people.

Large segments of Somali society have made clear their belief that reconciliation and reconstruction, led by the Transitional Federal Institutions, must begin in earnest. We therefore urge all members of the Transitional Federal Institutions to relocate to Somalia and begin the gradual process of establishing governance.

The United States strongly urges all members of the Transitional Federal Institutions and other Somali parties to continue their efforts towards reconciliation and inclusive dialogue. As with any democracy, the will of the people cannot be ignored. All Somali parties must demonstrate their continued commitment to the peace process and resolve any remaining outstanding differences within the framework of the Transitional Federal Institutions.