Somalia: Federal Govt, Puntland discussing Framework for Action

GAROWE, Somalia, April 11, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Somalia’s Federal Government (SFG) and the northeastern state of Puntland representatives have gathered for a two-day conference in the state capital of Garowe on Saturday, Garowe Online reports.

Somalia Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and Puntland leader Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali have jointly officiated the gathering with Ministers and MPs from the two sides present.

“Puntland is the father and mother of Federalism and it is ready and at all times stands for the unity of Somali people,” Puntland President began with his speech.” There can be differences on some issues, and different approaches to the areas of mutual interest lead to such meetings”.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sharmarke who gave participants a lengthy speech said in his opening remarks that the federal government is entrusted with substantial responsibility:” We shoulder a responsibility to hold consultations with stakeholders on vision 2016 including Review and implementation of Provisional constitution, and [also to make] national healing and reconciliation across the country possible”.

Expressing hope about the beginning of bilateral discussions, Sharmarke urged Federal Government and Puntland officials to reveal compromise and strike sticking points responsibly.

Sources close to the meeting told GO that implementation of previous agreements, constitutional review process, Federalism, Boundaries and Resource Sharing, formation of federal state in central Somalia and the establishment of inclusive national army are high on agendas. 

GAROWE ONLINE