Somalia designates prime minister

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MOGADISHU, Somalia, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Somalia's prime minister-designate was hailed by the international community as a step toward returning to self-governance in the African nation.

Abdi Farah Shirdon has been tapped to head the permanent government and his appointment will proceed to the nation's Parliament for approval, the U.N. News Service said.

"The appointment of a new prime minister is another important step forward in the country's peace-building process," said the secretary-general's special representative for Somalia, Augustine P. Mahiga.

Once approved, Shirdon will begin forming a cabinet with secretaries also approved by the legislative body, the United Nations reported, a key step in creating a stable government.

"The new authorities will play the central role in promoting the reconciliation and good governance necessary to achieve lasting peace and stability in Somalia," Mahiga said.