Hargeisa (29 November 2006) – A two-day planning session between the Somaliland Administration and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was concluded today in Hargeisa. The deliberations led to joint identification of the following development priorities for the partnership between Somaliland and UNDP for 2007: democratic governance, rule of law and security and poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods; with HIV and AIDS, gender and human rights as cross-cutting themes.

The Somaliland Administration was represented by six senior ministers led by the Minister of Planning and Coordination, Hon Ali Ibrahim Mohamed, who noted that this was a new phase in the cooperation between the Somaliland Administration and UNDP. “This is a new era marked by renewed efforts of coordinated aid mechanisms, common priorities and a commitment on the part of Somaliland Administration.” He further stressed the importance of ensuring that priority needs are addressed with seriousness and transparent and accountable manner.

The UNDP delegation was led by Country Director, Mr Bruno Lemarquis, who emphasised the importance of making certain UNDP support is appropriately targeted. “It is not the promises we make that are important but the delivery of services to the ones who need it most. The last two days have marked the launch of frank discussions with Somaliland officials to find a common solution for the developmental problems faced by Somaliland”. He also announced that UNDP would reinforce its presence in Somaliland in the months to come, with increased delegated authority to the Somaliland office.