The story

Countries have pledged $213 million at an international conference to boost security in Somalia and halt the country's growing piracy problem.

"We have a unique opportunity to support leaders who have shown a commitment to building peace and rebuilding the Somali state," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. "By opening the space for security, we open the door to a better life for Somalia's people."

"The risks of not supporting the new government are too high and the costs of failure too enormous," Ban added. Read full article »

CNN's David McKenzie contributed to this report.

All About Pirates • Gulf of Aden • Somalia