Somalia: A Viable State - What does this mean to Minnesota and the World?

Thank you for the invitation to participate in this panel and for the opportunity to explore with you the current state of affairs in Somalia. Before we discuss the specific questions and views that many of you have on this subject, I would like to provide some context for that discussion.

Our relationship with Somalia is complex. The United States, and specifically Minnesota, is the home of the largest Somali diaspora community, giving the United States a strong connection to the current situation in Somalia. United States interests in Somalia include addressing the humanitarian needs of the Somali people, preventing Somalia from serving as a base of operations or safe haven for terrorist organizations, and maintaining regional stability in the Horn of Africa. I have spoken with President Bush and Secretary Rice and Somalia is a priority for the United States – and is a priority for me as the new Assistant Secretary for African Affairs.

U.S. policy towards Somalia is designed to support the reestablishment of a functioning central government capable of bringing the Somali people out of this long period of civil conflict and addressing the international community’s concerns regarding terrorism. To achieve these policy objectives, the United States supported the two-year Somalia National Reconciliation Conference, which was hosted by the Government of Kenya under the auspices of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). This conference concluded in October 2004 following the formation of the Somalia Transitional Federal Institutions. We continue to work closely with our regional and international partners to support the reestablishment of stability, safety, and effective governance in Somalia.

It is the Somali people, however, who are ultimately responsible for the establishment of a functioning central government. Unfortunately, Somali leaders within the Transitional Federal Institutions have reached an impasse, which has prevented further progress in the ongoing political and reconciliation processes. We continue to engage all members of the Transitional Federal Institutions to emphasize our support for the ongoing political process and to urge dialogue as a means of resolving any disagreements.

In addition to quiet diplomacy, the United States is also a major donor of humanitarian assistance (approximately $30 million in fiscal year 2005). U.S. assistance programs in Somalia are alleviating suffering and promoting stability, while helping the Somali people develop more productive and self-sufficient livelihoods. In addition, the United States provided $5 million in FY 2005 to support peacebuilding, governance and basic education programs in Somalia. United States assistance activities in Somalia are designed to strengthen local governance, mitigate conflict by supporting dialogue and reconciliation activities, and responding to the critical needs of vulnerable groups.

These security, governance and development issues facing us in Somalia are complex and not easily defined. Nor can they be resolved easily or simply. Support for these efforts comes from many sources. On a policy and assistance level, the United States works closely with the international community; however, there is also a major role for civil society and the Diaspora in this process. I am eager to hear about your activities to address these issues and I welcome any questions you may have.