Canada Congratulates Somalia on Election of New President

OTTAWA, Canada, September 12, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada congratulates Somalia on the election of its new president and welcomes the beginning of a new chapter in Somalia's history.

“The election of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on September 10 marked the completion of the transition to a new Somali government. Formation of a new government is an important step toward a lasting peace for Somalia and will increase the prospects for prosperity and security for millions of Somalis who have endured more than 20 years of violent conflict.

“Canada encourages Somali leaders to act swiftly and put in place a credible and effective new federal administration committed to accountable governance. Able leaders, motivated by public service, can achieve much to the benefit of the Somali people.

“Canada will continue to work with the international community in supporting Somalia as it perseveres in building the permanent and durable structures of a safe, secure, stable and democratic state.”