EU to increase funding AU peace mission to Somalia

The European Union is to provide an additional 82 million euros (US$106 million) to the African Union (AU) mission in Somalia, its executive said Tuesday, now that the installation of a new Somalian president and parliament has opened a 'new chapter.' The extra funding, which brings overall EU contributions to almost 412 million euros, will allow the AU to reach its maximum strength of 17,731 troops under its United Nations mandate, the European Commission said. Funding from the EU covers troop allowances, police costs and civilian services such as medical care, housing and fuel, according to a report of dpa. EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said Somalia had 'opened a new chapter' by electing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, adopting a provisional constitution and selecting a new parliament. 'The EU will continue to contribute to stability and development in Somalia,' Ashton said, highlighting the role of the African Union in 'delivering the security needed to govern and bring development to the country.'