Strengthening the UK's relationship with the Puntland State of Somalia
Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham, and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development Stephen O鈥橞rien met the President of the Puntland State of Somalia on 17 October.
This is the President鈥檚 first visit to the UK in an official capacity. Speaking after their meeting, Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham said:
鈥淲e are pleased to welcome President Farole to London. The UK is developing a useful dialogue with the PuntlandState of Somalia on matters of mutual interest, such as piracy.
鈥淲e particularly welcome Puntland鈥檚 agreement with the Government of Seychelles to allow post-trial transfer of sentenced pirates to Puntland. Puntland is making efforts to strengthen its democracy, and we applaud the recent appointment of an Electoral Commissioner.鈥�
Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development Stephen O鈥橞rien added:
鈥淲e also discussed UK development assistance, which is focussed on healthcare, governance and job creation. We look forward to continuing our development partnership with Puntland.鈥�