UN envoy urges respect for ceasefire agreement in Somalia's Gaalkacyo

Expressing concern over renewed violence in the Somali city of Gaalkacyo, Michael Keating, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for the country, has called on all parties to honour the ceasefire agreement.

According to the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia, UNSOM, which Mr. Keating heads, the city, located on the border of Puntland and Galmudug states, had already been facing a difficult humanitarian situation and food insecurity. Trucks carrying relief supplies for people affected by drought have been blocked on the northern side of Gaalkacyo for the past three weeks due to continuing roadblocks.

"Puntland and Galmudug must resolve their differences in a non-violent manner and immediately agree on steps to dismantle the roadblocks, reopen the roads, and pull back the forces without further delay," UNSOM said.