Thursday, January 8, 2009

New Puntland head 'to end piracy'



MPs in Somalia's semi-autonomous region of Puntland have elected a new president who has promised to tackle piracy off its troubled coast. Abdirahman Mohamud Farole, a former finance minister and banker, defeated seven other candidates and will lead the northern region for four years. "I will eliminate the piracy... and will deal with the security," he said. Puntland declared itself autonomous in 1998, seven years after Somalia became engulfed in clan warfare. It does not seek recognition as an independent entity, like neighbouring Somaliland, wishing instead to be part of a federal Somalia. ..more..http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7817810.stm


Range's fortunes in Puntlanders' hands


Australia to take on Somali pirates

AUSTRALIA is looking to deploy a warship to act against pirates off the coast of Somalia after winding down operations to protect Iraq's oil terminals.
The Defence Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, said he would draw up a plan to join the international force after the United States asked that Australia participate.
The move would mark a significant opportunity for the Australian military to co-operate with the world's naval powers - including Britain, China, India, Russia and the US - which have all deployed ships as part of a UN-approved mission. more..http://www.smh.com.au/news/world/australia-to-take-on-somali-pirates/2009/01/08/1231004199160.html

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