The European Union Council on Thursday appointed Alexander Rondos as EU Special Representative to the Horn of Africa.
The task of the Special Representative is to actively contribute to regional and international efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and development in the region comprising Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan and Uganda.
The Council said in a statement that it has asked the Special Representative to initially focus on Somalia and the regional dimensions of the conflict there, as well as on piracy, which has its root causes in the instability of Somalia.
EU Foreign Policy chief Catherine Ashton said she "looks forward to working closely with Alexander Rondos, whose vast experience of the region makes him an excellent choice for this vital role." The recent adoption of the strategic framework for the Horn of Africa shows our determination to do all we can to help achieve lasting peace, security and development in the region, the High Representative added.
Alexander Rondos is a Greek diplomat with extensive experience in diplomatic negotiations around the world. He has held senior posts in the Greek Prime Minister's office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as in the World Bank. He has extensive understanding of Eastern African politics, having worked there on several occasions during his career.
The appointment of a Special Representative forms part of a recently adopted EU Strategic Framework for the Horn of Africa, setting out five priorities for EU action: building robust and accountable political structures; contributing to conflict resolution and prevention; mitigating security threats emanating from the region; promoting economic growth, and supporting regional economic cooperation.
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