Catherine Ashton, European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy visited Somalia to underline the EU's commitment to contributing to better governance, development and security in this country following the end of its eight-year transition period.

On the occasion of the Somalia ends its eight-year transition period, Catherine Ashton, European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy visited the country to underline the EU's commitment to contributing to better governance, development and security in the country. The EU is the biggest donor to Somalia having committed over €1 billion for the period 2008 to 2013 through a comprehensive approach including security support, development assistance and humanitarian aid. Recently, the EU and Somalia renewed cooperation commitment.

According to Ms Ashton, it is essential that the transition in Somalia is completed swiftly. She also added that the ending of Somalia's transition will bring with it the prospect of lasting peace, prosperity and stability for the country and for the millions of people who have suffered from 20 years of conflict. She highlighted that it is an occasion the EU warmly welcomes.

In addition to urge Somali leaders to act swiftly, decisively with integrity and in the interests of the Somali people, Ms Ashton also took the opportunity to assure the Somali people of the EU's continued support, including support for the African Union in its mission to create the necessary conditions for the development of Somali security forces, and with EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) engagement through the EU Training Mission (EUTM), Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) and its new capacity building mission (EUCAP Nestor).