BBC Monitoring Service - United Kingdom ; 10-Apr-2000 12:00:00 am

Text of report by Somali Puntland newspaper `Sahan' on 10th April

An Italian delegation is expected to arrive in Boosaaso [Puntland; northeastern Somalia] today. The delegation, which includes Italian ambassador to Somalia, Francesco Shortino and MPs, is headed by the Italian deputy foreign affairs minister.

The delegation is reportedly visiting Puntland and Somaliland in connection with issues concerning the Djibouti peace proposal for Somalia and how to convene another meeting sponsored by the Italian government.

Reports say the Italy-sponsored meeting will be held in Somalia. The Somali faction leaders, during this meeting, will explain their positions regarding the Djibouti reconciliation meeting.

Reports further say Col Abdullahi Yusuf and members of his cabinet arrived in Boosaaso last night in order to receive the Italian delegation.

Source: `Sahan', Boosaaso, in Somali 10 Apr 00 p 3