EU Presidency declaration on Somalia

The EU unequivocally supports the IGAD sponsored peace and reconciliation process for Somalia, in line with the European Union Council Conclusions of 22 July 2002. There is an urgent need to resolve the crisis and stop the violence. The IGAD sponsored peace and reconciliation process due to begin on 15 October in Eldoret, Kenya, is the one forum where all involved parties can work together to establish a platform for peace and reconciliation. Because of the wide regional and international support that it enjoys, the Eldoret Conference is a crucial opportunity for resolving the conflict in Somalia and for putting an end to the untold sufferings of the Somali people. The EU appeals to all Somali parties not to miss this opportunity.

The EU recognizes the crucial role played by the IGAD Technical Committee comprised of the three frontline states Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti and headed by Ambassador Mwangale of Kenya in laying the foundations for the IGAD sponsored peace and reconciliation process. Their work in seeking the backing of all parties in accordance with the framework established by IGAD is vital for the prospects of success. It is important that this backing behind a single framework is firmly maintained throughout the process.

The EU appeals to all parties to actively support the IGAD sponsored peace and reconciliation process, to work constructively to make it work and to strive to overcome all obstacles that present themselves along the way. The important thing is that the conference in Eldoret becomes a firm first step in a peace and reconciliation process that aims at progressively building consensus among the parties.

The EU is ready to support the process in any way possible and appropriate. The EU also reiterates its willingness to give full support for the implementation of a possible peace and reconciliation agreement.

The Central and Eastern European countries associated with the European Union, the associated countries Cyprus, Malta and Turkey, and the EFTA countries, members of the European Economic Area, align themselves with this declaration.

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• EU humanitarian aid for Somalia (15/3/2002)
• EU Presidency Statement - The Security Council on Somalia (11/3/2002)