In a press release it published today regarding the upcoming consultative meeting, scheduled for April 12 and 13 in Nairobi, the UN believes such a meeting brings the international partners and Somalis together for a discussion. Due to their continued refusal to attend, the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) has requested to have a follow-up meeting, to be held in Mogadishu.
The press said Ambassador Mahiga had high hopes for the Nairobi meeting, despite vast speculation of its purpose. He sees the meeting as an opportunity to reopen dialogue, highlighting free exchange of ideas as the first step in the peace process according to the same press release.
The UN emphasized that the meeting would serve as an opportunity for Somali groups and members of the international community (including the UN) to discuss the Somali situation—in the past, present, and future. The UN and other international players are expected to outline their respective future roles in Somalia as they seek to aid Somalia in its efforts to rebuild and foster peace.
Though the agenda has not been firmly outlined, Ambassador Mahiga expects open discussion regarding plans for Somalia as it emerges from its transitional state, all which will be addressed further at the upcoming meeting to be held in Mogadishu.