Dhusamareb, Somalia – The UN Special Representative for Somalia, Catriona Laing, visited the state of Galmudug earlier Saturday for meetings with regional President Ahmed Abdi Karie ‘Qoorqoor’. During her visit, Laing praised Galmudug’s progress on preparations for local elections and reclaiming territory from Al-Shabaab militants.
In a press appearance with President Qoorqoor, Laing thanked him for the warm welcome extended to her delegation. She said she was pleased to finally make the trip after a previously scheduled visit in June was postponed.
Laing reported having fruitful discussions with Qoorqoor on several key issues. She commended him for his commitment to an inclusive national dialogue on the National Consultative Council process. Laing said it was vital that the Somali people, including opposition groups, civil society, elders, women and youth are involved in this state-building effort.
The UN envoy also applauded Galmudug’s advances in local democracy, noting preparations are well underway for district-level one-person-one-vote elections. She reaffirmed the UN’s support for assisting the regional government in carrying out the polls.
On security, Laing congratulated Qoorqoor on reclaiming territory from Al-Shabaab militants. However, she emphasized the importance of stabilizing those areas after military operations, including deploying police units and providing basic services so residents can rebuild their lives. She was pleased to learn 400 local police have been established and pledged UN help with further stabilization programs.
Finally, Laing said progress was being made on opening a UN office in Galmudug’s capital Dhusamareb to strengthen the partnership between the world body and regional authorities. She agreed to fast-track the process to establish the office as soon as possible.
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