IGAD Welcomes Somalia’s Ratification of the New Treaty

Djibouti –Sudanhorizon

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the ratification by the Somali Federal Parliament’s House of the People of the new IGAD treaty, considering it a milestone in Somalia’s journey towards engaging in regional mechanisms for peace, development, and cooperation.

In a press release issued Wednesday, the organization stated that the ratification is evidence of the Federal Republic of Somalia’s firm commitment to regional cooperation and shared progress.

By joining the other member states – Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya – in ratifying the new IGAD treaty, Somalia affirms its support for the region’s collective aspirations and the principles of mutual respect, partnership, and sustainable development that underpin the IGAD framework.

It is worth noting that the 1996 IGAD Treaty Establishment was revitalized, providing the legal and institutional basis for enhanced cooperation among member states in the areas of peace and security, climate change adaptation, infrastructure, health, trade, and social development. It will now be replaced by the 2023 IGAD Treaty.

IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu congratulated the Federal Republic of Somalia on its ratification of the IGAD Treaty and commended the Somali Parliament and Government for their decisive leadership in achieving this important milestone.

He added: “As IGAD celebrates its 40th anniversary, the Federal Republic of Somalia’s ratification of the Treaty brings us to the required two-thirds threshold, strengthening the legal foundation for deeper regional integration and more coordinated action in the areas of trade, peace, and sustainable development in the Horn of Africa. Together, we will build a stronger, more united, and more resilient region for our people and enhance collective action to support regional priorities.”

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