International Day of Peace 2007

Message of the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Somalia

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Dear Friends,

The commemoration of yet another International Peace Day offers us the opportunity to reflect on the achievements we have registered over the past years to foster the advent of genuine and lasting peace and reconciliation in Somalia as well as the outstanding challenges that still need to be addressed.

It is significant to note that this year’s anniversary celebration is taking place in the wake of a national reconciliation process which appealed to the Somali people to reach a complete ceasefire and voluntary disarmament.

I have no doubt that this event has laid down the basis  for the pursuit of a more inclusive process that would bring onboard all Somalis of goodwill in your collective quest to put behind you the scourge of internecine conflict that has retarded the progress and development of this great country of yours.

As members of the international community, we renew our commitment and resolve to work with all peace-loving Somalis to support and assist them in their pursuit of this noble goal which we earnestly hope and pray would usher in the rebirth of your beloved country.

Drawing inspiration from the rich historical and cultural heritage of Somalia, I am confident together united in our common determination to open a new page, we can succeed Insha’Allah.

On this note, I take the opportunity to wish all Somalis a happy International Peace Day and a blessed Ramadan.