Monday, June 28, 2013
New York, US - UN Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman Thursday visited Somalia to express solidarity in the aftermath of the recent attack on the UN compound in Mogadishu.
A PANA correspondent in New York reported Friday that Mr. Feltman used the opportunity of the visit to reaffirm the organisation's resolve to continue its support to the Somali government and people of the East African nation.
The 19 June attack on the UN Common Compound resulted in the death of one UN staff member, three contractors, four Somali guards and innocent civilians.
'The memories of our colleagues killed during this heinous attack will remain in our hearts and minds and strengthen our resolve as we continue our vital work in Somalia,' Mr. Feltman said.
'The United Nations will not be deterred and our commitment is to stay and work together with the Somali people for a brighter future for their country. We are very proud of each one of you and grateful for your courage and dedication,' he told UN staff members.
The visit was the second to Somalia this year by Mr. Feltman, who met with Somali President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud, members of the diplomatic missions and UN staff affected by last week's attack.
During the visit, the UN political affairs chief discussed security and safety measures for UN operations in Somalia, where a new UN political mission (UNSOM) began work earlier this month.
The mission is tasked with offering expertise in areas ranging from the political process to disarmament to help the country consolidate and build on hard-won gains towards peace, reconciliation and stability.