WAM Abu Dhabi, Aug 04th, 2012 (WAM) - The UAE participated in the international meeting held in Somalian capital Mogadishu to discuss ways to enhance support provided by the global community to Somalia.

This is the first visit of a UAE delegation to Somalia in more than a decade and it coincided with agreement by the Somali leaders to support a new U.N.-backed interim constitution, potentially paving the way for the country's first stable government in over two decades The UAE delegation was headed by Faris Al Mazroui, Assistant Foreign Minister for Security and Military Affairs.

UAE's visit to Somalia comes at an important phase in the history of that country as the Transitional Federal Government is moving ahead towards the formation of the first permanent central government in Somalia ending the long process of transition.

"This is an historic day - today we have witnessed the completion of a task that has been worked on for the last eight years," said Constitutional Affairs Minister Abdirahman Hosh Jabril.

Al Mazrui expressed happiness for UAE's participation in the international meeting held in the Somali capital. He said the UAE will continue to develop bilateral relations with Somali people and their leaders.

"The convening of this international meeting in Mogadishu is of great importance as it reflects the significant progress that has been made by the Somalis and the international community to restore peace and security in the country. The UAE is ready to support the leadership in Somalia at this important time", said Al Mazroui.

The interim constitution was voted by Somali leaders despite suicide attacks against the National Constituent Assembly building, which was thwarted by the Somali security forces.

"In less than two weeks, the leaders in Somalia have to achieve the long cherished aspirations of the Somali people, and the progress that has been made today is historic even in the face of the attempted attack by those who seek to prevent progress in Somalia. It demonstrates the determination and resolve of the Somali people and its leaders to achieve these aspirations. ", stressed Al Mazroui.

Al Mazroui met with senior ministers in the transitional government during the visit and discussed with them the ways to enhance the process.

Under the UN-backed plan, a new parliament will choose on 20th August the country's next leader in an effort to unite the country.

WAM/AB