The implementation of a Somali led political process should take into account the legitimate aspirations and concerns held by all stakeholders, along with ensuring the adequate representation of women, minorities, and young people, said a Vietnamese diplomat on Wednesday. Nguyen Phuong Tra, deputy permanent representative of Vietnam to the US made a statement at a UN Security Council briefing on Somalia on Wednesday in New York.

She stated that the period at the end of the year and into early 2022 will play a decisive role for Somalia in organizing its National Assembly and the presidential elections.  Tra therefore expressed a strong desire that all parties will reach a political consensus and hold elections as scheduled.

Vietnam appreciates recent positive developments, especially the completion of elections for all 54 seats in the Senate, calling on international partners to increase humanitarian assistance to the Somali Government. This is along with reducing the socio-economic impact caused by threats and challenges from locusts, floods, droughts, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vietnamese diplomat said.

Source: VOV5