Security Council urges Somalis to participate ‘constructively’ in reconciliation talks

Members of the United Nations Security Council have urged the parties in Somalia to participate “constructively” in an upcoming national reconciliation conference in Kenya.

The Council President, Ambassador Stefan Tafrov of Bulgaria, said in a press statement Tuesday evening that the members reaffirmed their “united and firm” support for the reconciliation process on Somalia sponsored by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

Council members strongly urged the parties, including representatives from different regions, in accordance with the framework established by IGAD, to participate constructively at the Conference scheduled to begin on 15 October in Eldoret, Kenya, Ambassador Tafrov said.

They also emphasized the need for humanitarian aid personnel to be allowed safe access so that assistance can be provided to the people in need, he added.