Norway condemns attempts to overthrow Somalia’s transitional Government

Norway condemns the attempts by militant extremists to overthrow Somalia’s legitimate transitional Government by armed force.

Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre comments:

“Destructive forces are currently holding Somalia’s future hostage, forcing civilians to flee their homes yet again, and causing them renewed suffering.

“Norway urges the international community to actively support the Somali authorities’ attempts to stabilise the country, and applauds the African Union (AU)decision to send more forces into Somalia.

“I appeal to all the countries in the region, and to the Somalis who want peace in their country, to disassociate themselves with the extremists’ actions. I urge everyone to support the UN-led Djibouti process, which helped to put into place the broadest parliamentary representation and the most inclusive government the country has ever had.”