Shabeelle Media Network report

The Italian ambassador to Somalia, Mario Rafielli, and the chairman of the Consultative Council of the Union of Islamic Courts, [Shaykh Hasan Dahir Aweys], have held talks in Dhuusa Mareeb in Galgaduud Region [central Somalia] during which they discussed several issues.

When contacted by Shabeelle about the meeting, Chairman Shaykh Hasan Dahir Aweys said the discussions with the Italian envoy touched on important issues regarding the evolving Somali peace but he would not elaborate. He added that their discussions also included mediation efforts between the [transitional] government and the courts.

When Shabelle asked Shaykh Aweys whether their discussions touched an earlier proposal by Italy to include court members in the transitional government, he said that was one of the crucial issues they had discussed, but stressed that this must be preceded by talks [between the Islamists and interim government].

Meanwhile, Shaykh Aweys said he was not aware of stories circulating regarding the formation of a tripartite court in Ceel Buur [central Somalia] which is being carried out by former members of the Anti-Terrorism Alliance [ATA].

He however, stated that he was aware of the presence of former alliance members in that area and had in fact had a telephone conversation with [ATA member] Muhammad Qanyare Afrah.

The Italian ambassador has in the past underscored the importance of including members of the courts in the government.