Somalia: Keating on first visit to Puntland

GAROWE, Somalia-United Nations envoy to Somalia Ambassador Michael Keating has arrived in the northeastern State of Puntland on first visit since being appointed to the post, Garowe Online reports. 

Puntland government officials On Tuesday received his delegation that also includes representatives from IGAD, Italy, EU, Britain, US and Ethiopia. 

At a joint press conference with new UN envoy, President Abdiweli Mohamed Ali said that he discussed consolidation of Somali peace process and 2016 elections with Keating.  

Ali expressed delight with the arrival of delegation composed of international community representatives who will confer with political and community leaders and civil society on new electoral model. 999

“This delegation has come to Puntland to listen to the views of Puntland people including politicians, traditional leaders and civil society groups, grasping of consolidation of Somalia’s peace process and vision for 2016 elections,” Puntland leader told reporters at the State House.  

On his side, Keating praised Puntland on role in national politics, further noting that he will meet political and traditional leaders as well as business community members about 2016 election proposal.  

Over the course of his three-day stay in Puntland, Keating might have tough talks.  On Monday, Puntland clan elders railed against any return to controversial 4.5 power sharing formula, a blueprint endorsed by international community representatives.

GAROWEONLINE