Former President Rawlings commends Egypt

Accra, Sept. 7, GNA - Former President Jerry John Rawlings has commended the Government and people of Egypt for the manner in which they are managing the political transition in their country.

He, however, noted that more work needed to be done to keep the wheels of the revolution oiled in order to satisfy the people's expectations.

A statement issued by the Office of Former President Rawlings and copied to Ghana News Agency in Accra said President Rawlings made the commendation during a meeting with the Egyptian Prime Minister, Essam Sharaf, in Cairo.

President Rawlings, who is also the African Union High Representative for Somalia, commended the Egyptians for their contributions towards the humanitarian situation in Somalia and other Horn of Africa countries.

Egypt pledged 30 million Egyptian pounds (five million dollars) in cash and kind towards the humanitarian crisis during the Pledging Conference held in Addis Ababa on August 25.

President Rawlings, who was in Egypt to participate in a Retreat of African Union Envoys, organised by the Peace and Security Council of AU, said he had learnt that Egypt had already sent four aircrafts with food and supplies as well as medical personnel who are currently in Mogadishu.

In addition, Egypt is sending shipping vessels to convey 1,000 tonnes of supplies to Somalia.

The AU High Representative for Somalia expressed concern about the plight of women and children in particular and said those issues must be highlighted.

President Rawlings pointed out that his experiences in Mogadishu were particularly touching and the sight of the suffering of women and children had motivated further his quest to assist in the resolution of conflict in Somalia.

He indicated that the problems of Somalia could only be resolved by involving all Somalis in the process and in his capacity, he needs all the advice and assistance from countries like Egypt who had a better understanding of the issues on the ground.

Premier Sharaf expressed gratitude to President Rawlings for his work on Somalia and extended an arm of additional assistance to Somalia.

He called for a list of areas and items of assistance required.