Washington, Feb 25 (IANS/EFE): US President Barack Obama has nominated diplomat Katherine S. Dhanani as the country's first ambassador to Somalia since 1991.

"This historic nomination signals the deepening relationship between the United States and Somalia. It also allows us to mark the progress of the Somali people toward emerging from decades of conflict," said US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki in a statement Tuesday.

"Somalia has considerable work ahead to complete its transition to a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous nation. The United States is committed to supporting Somalia on this journey as a steadfast partner," the note read.

If confirmed by the Senate, Dhanani will lead the US mission to Somalia based at the American embassy in Nairobi, Kenya.

"As security conditions permit, we look forward to increasing our diplomatic presence in Somalia and eventually reopening the US embassy in Mogadishu," the statement said.