Ambassador to the Holy See: We are seeing a new Somalia emerging
The British Ambassador to the Holy See Nigel Baker talks to Vatican Radio on the achievements of 2013 Somalia Conference
London Somalia Conference, 7 May 2013
On 8 May 2013, the British Ambassador to the Holy See Nigel Baker was interviewed by Vatican Radio, on the achievements of the Somalia Conference, which took place in London on 7 May and was co-hosted by the UK and Somalia.
The Ambassador explained why the Conference marked a significant achievement, building in the progress made in Somalia since the last London conference in 2012:
The key aspect of the Conference was to bring the international community together, over 50 countries, to provide support to the government of Somalia [..]. It was really encouraging to see Somalia taking the lead, and showing the international community its plans for the future, such as strong measures to improve security, and the management of efficient, transparent public services.
The Ambassador concluded:
The British Government is playing a key role, because of the long historical ties between Britain and Somalia and the need to tackle problems, like famine and violence, which have been affecting not only Somalia, but the wider region.