Vice Minister Emanuela Del Re had a telephone conversation with the Health Minister of Somalia, Fawziya Abikar Nur.
Minister Fawziya expressed to the Vice Minister the heartfelt thanks of the Somali government for the ongoing humanitarian operation. It began on July 5, with the first of three flights Brindisi-Mogadishu that will transport a total of 42 tons of aid, including medical supplies for the response to COVID-19. The operation is part of the “humanitarian airlift” mechanism set up by the European Commission to transport humanitarian material to and from the most vulnerable countries, whose connections are made difficult by the pandemic.
For flights to Somalia, Italy acts as a “sponsor State”, playing a coordinating role, consolidating the cargo, and facilitating procedures. The first flight carried a cargo of 15 tons, made entirely of the material of Italian origin. The second flight will leave tomorrow from Brindisi, with a cargo of goods provided by UNICEF, UNOPS, UNGSC, while the third flight, with additional Italian and WHO material.
“At this moment” – Del Re told the interlocutor – “there is in Europe great sensitivity towards Africa and willingness to help the most fragile countries in this delicate phase of the pandemic. On the Italian side, the priority of the Cooperation is providing support to the development of the continent and to Somalia. Italy and Somalia are united by a strong political and human bond”.