UN mission chief welcomes opening of Somali parliament

The top UN official in Somalia has welcomed this week's opening of the second session of parliament.

Michael Keating, head of the UN Mission in the country, UNSOM, congratulated the Speaker and parliamentarians, stressing that they can make significant progress by passing key legislation such as the electoral law.

He added that real sovereignty for Somalia will depend on the country reducing its dependency on others as well as its ability to raise revenues and shape its own national agenda.

Mr. Keating stated that the UN system and the international community remain committed to working with the parliament for the benefit of the Somali people.

Dianne Penn, United Nations/GBC.