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![]() European Commission MEMO Brussels, 25 September 2013 EU supports Kenya in facing terrorism and its consequences Since the beginning of the hostage taking in the Westgate Shopping Mall in Nairobi on Saturday 21 September, the EU has been engaged to provide every possible support to the people of Kenya. On Monday 23 September, Nick Westcott, Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service, left Brussels for Nairobi to link up with the Government, offer the EU's solidarity and support, and discuss follow-up action to combat radicalisation and financing of terrorism, both in Kenya and in the region. The EEAS and the Commission are also liaising with international partners and organisations, including Interpol, on the possible support the EU could bring. Terrorism is as a global threat and as such requires a comprehensive and coordinated response. The EU is a longstanding partner of the Horn of Africa in facing terrorism and remains committed to cooperating with all countries to free the region from the scourge of Al-Shabab:
EU Development cooperation with Kenya The overall EU development cooperation with Kenya for the period 2008-2013 amounts to €391 million. Development support on the country focuses on rural development and road infrastructure but also covers macro-economic support, Trade & Private Sector Development and Good governance & Non-State Actor support. Since peace and security are essential for the development and prosperity of any countries, other initiatives linked to security have been launched in the region, of which the Kenya and its population are direct beneficiaries. One of them is a regional project on anti-money laundering and countering financial terrorism, which will strengthen the capacities of financial intelligence units and other law enforcement bodies, as well as establish closer links between relevant authorities across the region. The EU will organise a regional seminar on countering violent extremism in Nairobi early December, which will bring together EU and national governments from the region to identify specific interventions tailored to each partner country. Background High Representative / Vice-President Catherine Ashton issued a statement on Sunday 22 September, condemning the attack and pledging the EU's full support to the Kenyan authorities in handling the crisis and responding to the threat. President of the Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and President of the European Council Herman van Rompuy sent a letter to Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday 23 September, expressing the EU's solidary and continued commitment. On Monday 16 September, the EU co-organised an international conference in Brussels on 'A new deal for Somalia' to support the re-establishment of a stable government, proper security and the rule of law in the country. €1.8 billion were pledged, including an additional €650 million from the European Commission. For more information Support to African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) Statement by HRVP Catherine Ashton Joint message by President of the European Council and President of the European Commission |
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