Press release: PM meetings at the London Somalia Conference: 11 May 2017

The Prime Minister opened the Somalia Conference at Lancaster House in London today, alongside President Farmajo of Somalia, United Nations Secretary-General Guterres and African Union Commission Chairperson Faki.

She also had meetings with President Kenyatta of Kenya, Prime Minister Hailemariam of Ethiopia and President Museveni of Uganda. In her meetings with these leaders, the Prime Minister discussed the importance of the Conference in bringing together the international community to help Somalia build a more secure, stable and prosperous future for its people. They spoke about the fight against Al Shabaab, and the vital ongoing role of AMISOM in these efforts. Discussions also covered the wider region, including the security and humanitarian situation in South Sudan.

The Prime Minister and President Kenyatta discussed Britain and Kenya’s close bilateral relationship in the areas of defence, security, counter-terrorism and trade, and agreed to work together to build on this collaboration. They also discussed the significance of the Commonwealth, and looked ahead to the Commonwealth Summit which the UK will host in April next year.

In her discussion with Prime Minister Hailemariam, the Prime Minister highlighted the compact agreement creating jobs for refugees as an example of our constructive partnership. Prime Minister Hailemariam welcomed the support Britain has provided for Ethiopia’s development, which he said had been instrumental in lifting millions of people out of poverty.

The Prime Minister and President Museveni discussed the strong partnership between the UK and Uganda, following recent visits by Britain’s Foreign and International Development secretaries. They committed to working together to strengthen the ties between our nations in the years ahead.