Written question asked by Patrick Grady (Scottish National Party) on Thursday, 17 December 2015, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 January 2016 (named day). It was answered by James Duddridge (Conservative) on Tuesday, 5 January 2016 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Somalia: Violence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will issue a response to EDM 858, Violence in Galkayo, Somalia.

Answer: On 2 December, Puntland President Gaas and Galmudug President Guled signed a peace agreement, which resulted in a cessation of hostilities and establishment of a joint committee to facilitate reconciliation. We welcome the mediation efforts of Prime Minister Sharmarke and other Somali leaders. The international community also played an active role in pressing for an agreement: the UN issued a joint statement and ensured leaders were able to travel for the negotiations, and the UK was in contact with Somali leaders directly. Throughout we made clear that this conflict is extremely damaging not only to the people of Galkayo but more widely to the fight against Al Shabaab and to Somalia’s reputation.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 20572
Session: 2015-16
Related items: VIOLENCE IN GALKAYO, SOMALIA
Monday, 14 December 2015
Early day motions
House of Commons
Subjects: Violence Somalia
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk