SABAHI
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Somali Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon and Puntland regional President Abdirahman Mohamed Farole signed an historic agreement Monday (March 11th) outlining the relationship between the central government and the regional administration.
"Today's agreement with Puntland is another major step forward in reconciliation and federal state-building," Shirdon said in a press statement. "I believe that this agreement will improve our relationship and ensure our ties only get stronger."
The agreement consists of seven articles detailing each party's rights and obligations under federalism. It stipulates federal government support for developing Puntland's economy and strengthening Puntland's democratic process. In addition, the two governments agreed to work together on security improvements and to share information in the fight against al-Shabaab.
"We reached a very critical agreement that will build trust and confidence across the board," Farole said, according Somalia's Garowe Online.
Shirdon is currently on a "listening tour", visiting various areas of Somalia. He visited Galgadud before Garowe, and plans to visit Galmudug next.
Source: SABAHI