02/02/2012

Hague Makes Historic Visit To Somalia

The Foreign Secretary has visited the war torn country of Somalia – the first such visit by a foreign secretary in 20 years.

While in the country's capital Mogadishu, William Hague said the visit was a sign of Britain's commitment to the people and country of Somalia.

The Foreign Office said the visit followed political and security improvements in the region, which were offering the people of Somalia the opportunity to lay the foundations for greater long term stability.

Ahead of the London Conference on Somalia later this month, the Foreign Secretary met with the President, Prime Minister and the Mayor of Mogadishu to stress the importance we attach to the completion of political transition this summer.

He told the leaders that while Somalia's problems cannot be resolved overnight, the UK hoped that the conference will act as a catalyst for a new, long term international and Somali effort.

The Foreign Secretary said: "Today I am delighted to have made the first visit to Mogadishu by a British Foreign Secretary for over 19 years. This is a sign of Britain's commitment to the people and country of Somalia.

"As a further demonstration of our long-term commitment to Somalia, the UK's new Ambassador to Somalia, Matt Baugh has today presented his credentials to President Sheikh Sharrif."

The visit comes only a week after Navy Seals swooped into Somalia and rescued two aid workers, an American woman and a Danish man, who had been abducted by Somali pirates.

(DW/GK)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

17 February 2012
Foreign Office Announces Further Libyan Support
Foreign Secretary William Hague has announced more financial support for Libya, as the country marks a year since its uprising.
24 November 2004
Straw begins two-day visit to Middle East
The Foreign Secretary is today on the first leg of a two-day visit to Israel and the Occupied Territories to explore how the UK can "contribute to efforts to bring peace" to the region. During his visit Jack Straw is expected to meet Israeli Prime Minister Sharon and with interim Palestinian President Rawhi Fattouh.
18 October 2011
Fox 'Broke Ministerial Code' Report Will Say
A Government report is expected to find that former Defence Secretary Liam Fox broke the Ministerial Code in his dealings with his friend Adam Werritty, However, the report, being compiled by Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell, is also expected to claim Mr Fox did not gain financially from the arrangements or his controversial dealings and trips t
01 May 2013
Hague Welcomes Report On Independent Scotland
UK Foreign Secretary William Hague has welcomed a report carried out by the Foreign Affairs Committee, which found that an independent Scotland would have to apply for membership of NATO, the EU and the UN. The Committee announced its inquiry into 'the foreign policy implications of and for a separate Scotland' on 18 July 2012.
26 October 2011
Emergency Summit Announced Over Euro Crisis
EU leaders are to assemble in Brussels on Wednesday to secure a last minute deal on the escalating crisis over the European banking crisis. A number of arguments have developed between state leaders, especially between French President Nicolas Sarkozy and David Cameron, on how to handle further EU bailouts for troubled euro-using countries.