Somaliland: Foreign Affairs Minister visits Kenya to discuss the New Deal with donor countries

Hargeisa, Aug 14, 2013 (SDN) —The country’s top diplomat Mohamed Bihi yonis embarked on today a working visit to Kenya following an official invitation extended to him by the European Union’s Special Envoy to Somaliland and Somalia Ambassador Michele Cervone d’Urso to continue discussions over a possible partnership between Somaliland and donor countries based on the principles of the “New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States.”

In a press statement issued by the Foreign Ministry reads:

“Hon. Mohamed Behi Yonis, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Somaliland, traveled to Kenya today on his first official visit since taking office on 27 July 2013.

Minister of Foreign Affairs   flew to Nairobi at the invitation of the European Union Special Envoy to Somalia, H.E. Ambassador Michele Cervone d’Urso, to continue discussions over a possible partnership between Somaliland and donor countries based on the principles of the “New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States.”

The Foreign Minister will also hold meetings with the UN Resident Coordinators Office, EU member states and other donor governments. His discussions with the donor counterparts will center on the more effective use of aid in addressing Somaliland’s core development needs, with emphasis placed on promoting ownership and accountability.

Alongside discussions on the New Deal partnership, Mr Yonis will also relay the message delivered by H.E. President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo during his Eid speech regarding Somaliland’s position on participation in the 16 September New Deal Conference in Brussels. Through proactive engagement, the government of Somaliland looks forward to strengthening its partnership with the EU and donor governments in support of further democratization and development.

A.Y. Elmi

Press Officer

Minister of Foreign Affairs& International Cooperation

SDN Hargeisa