Annan hails truce accord

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has hailed the signing of a truce agreement by Somalia's various political factions and the Transitional National Government (TNG) on 27 October. The accord was signed at the Somali National Reconciliation Conference currently under way in the western Kenyan town of Eldoret under the auspices of the regional Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Annan urged the Somali parties to abide fully by their commitments and to move into the next phase of the reconciliation process “with determination and a true spirit of reconciliation,” a statement issued by his spokesman said. Voicing concern about continued violence and insecurity in parts of Somalia, the statement called for an immediate end to all fighting, pointing out that the clashes not only undermined the reconciliation process, but also impeded the provision of humanitarian and development assistance in the country. Annan commended Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi and his government as well as the IGAD countries for their efforts in support of national reconciliation in Somalia. “He reiterates the continued support of the United Nations to the IGAD effort on Somalia,” the spokesman said. The 'Declaration on the Cessation of Hostilities and the Structures and Principles' was endorsed on Thursday in the presence of President Moi, who also signed the document.