IGAD Executive Secretary Mahboub Maalim had signed the agreement prior to the meeting. Head of Programme, Ambassador Hiruy Amanuel, represented ICPAT and described Norway’s support as “Class A”, particularly due to the current challenging economic environment. Appreciation was expressed regarding Norway’s role as a professional and supportive partner to ICPAT. The NOK 2 million contribution for the coming 12 months is not earmarked to specific areas of ICPAT. It is however meant to strengthen the ICPAT secretariat and the implementation of the overall programme in general.
Ambassador Kjemprud expressed his pleasure to sign the agreement and continue as a partner to the programme. He emphasised that ICPAT should have been conceived earlier, and praised the programme for its great work and important role, regionally and beyond. ICPAT is vital as the region is experiencing great security challenges. Through practical cooperation the programme is contributing to building a network of confidence and trust in the region.
ICPAT is a regional initiative launched in 2006 to build capacity and cooperation in and between IGAD member states’ prevention and combat of terrorism. Norway is one of seven countries supporting ICPAT. This agreement builds on the NOK 1,6 million contribution by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2007. Norway is also a member of IGAD Partners Forum and has supported IGAD on development issues and its role in the peace talks in Sudan and Somalia. Norway plans to support other IGAD initiatives from 2010. IGAD’s executive secretary Mahboub Maalim visited the Nordic countries two weeks ago.
IGAD’s six member states are Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Uganda, Kenya, and Somalia. Eritrea unilaterally suspended its membership in 2007.