S/PV.9040 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Somalia to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. James Swan, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia; and Mr. Francisco Caetano José Madeira, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Mission in Somalia. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2022/392, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Somalia. I now give the floor to Mr. Swan. Mr. Swan: I thank the members of the Security Council for the opportunity to brief them on the situation in Somalia. I am pleased to do so once again alongside the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Madeira. The conclusion of Somalia’s electoral process last week is a major milestone for the country. The presidential contest followed an unduly protracted and contentious process to choose members of the legislature. Once the senators and members of Parliament were sworn in on 14 April, however, they moved quickly to elect the Speaker and two Deputy Speakers in each chamber of Parliament and then prepare for the presidential vote. On 15 May, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected Somalia’s tenth President by a decisive margin, in a joint session of Parliament that was peaceful, orderly and respectful of the rules of procedure. Outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmajo graciously conceded and congratulated and extended support to his successor. The new President was immediately sworn in, and the outcome has been fully accepted. As the Security Council has noted repeatedly, it is past time for Somali leaders to move beyond the prolonged political contest to focus on urgent national priorities. I had the honour, on 18 May, to hear directly from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud about his immediate goals. He emphasized national reconciliation, improving relations between the central Government and federal member states, addressing the security threat from Al-Shabaab, finishing the constitutional review and judicial reforms, completing election-related laws, ensuring compliance with international financial institutions’ requirements for debt relief and giving urgent attention to the dire drought conditions. We believe that is an appropriate list of initial priorities and look forward to learning more details as the new leadership takes charge and as a new Prime Minister and Cabinet are named in the coming weeks. The entire United Nations system in Somalia is ready to work with the new Government in support of those shared goals. While we welcome the end of the elections and look forward to progress on other issues, we must be clear- eyed about the shortcomings of the earlier stages of the process. Contrary to Somalia’s provisional Constitution, the Somali people did not have the opportunity to vote for the House of the People in a one person, one vote election. Women were elected to just 21 per cent of parliamentary seats  — well short of the 30 per cent goal set by Somalis themselves. Many irregularities in the selection of members of Parliament were noted throughout the process, which was repeatedly marred by tragic incidents of violence, with numerous civilian casualties recorded. We call on Somalia’s leaders to do better for their people in the next electoral cycle. The United Nations stands ready to support such efforts. Somalia’s security situation remains highly volatile. Emboldened by domestic political tensions, in recent months Al-Shabaab maintained its modus operandi and focused attacks in Mogadishu, South-West state and Hirshabelle. The spate of deadly incidents in March and April suggested an effort to disrupt the final phases of the electoral process. I commend the courage and tenacity of Somali security forces and African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) forces who safeguarded the electoral process and bore the brunt of Al-Shabaab’s deadly attacks, then and after. I want to extend special condolences for the losses suffered as a result of the 3 May complex attack by Al-Shabaab on the ATMIS forward operating base in Ceel Baraf, Middle Shabelle. Since the formal transition from the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to ATMIS on 1 April, as per resolution 2628 (2022), both Somali and African Union (AU) security officials have been heavily focused on electoral security. The United Nations has taken steps at the technical level to engage both the Federal Government of Somalia and ATMIS on the way forward on the implementation of the Somali Transition Plan and the ATMIS mandate. Now that the election is over, it will be important to reinvigorate structures previously agreed by the Security and Justice Committee to support coordination, prioritize force generation and integration, mobilize resources and build the capacity of the Somali security forces. I call on the new Administration to demonstrate its full political commitment and leadership in delivering the agreed security transition. The United Nations Support Office for Somalia continues to provide support under its mandate to ATMIS forces and has established and staffed a transition cell to ensure it is well postured to meet the needs of the new AU mission. The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) also continues to support Somali forces under the terms of its mandate, albeit at reduced levels owing to the depletion of the United Nations trust fund in support of the Somali security forces. While thanking those who have generously offered support, we call on partners to make further contributions to the trust fund. We would also welcome more clarity on plans to fund future ATMIS requirements that are not currently covered. The humanitarian situation in Somalia is worsening following the failure of a fourth consecutive rainy season. The number of people affected by the drought has risen to 6.1 million. The country faces a heightened risk of localized famine in six communities if food prices continue to rise and humanitarian assistance is not sustained. Humanitarians have scaled up their activities, prioritizing the most vulnerable populations and focusing on famine prevention. Yet, almost halfway through the year, the 2022 humanitarian response plan is just 15 per cent funded against its total appeal for $1.45 billion. We call for urgent additional contributions. On 26 April, a high-level donor round table in Geneva focused attention on humanitarian needs across the Horn of Africa, including Somalia. We are grateful to donors for their pledges and commitments. However, without the immediate receipt of funding to expand humanitarian operations, we face the prospect of significant loss of life in the period ahead. Even as we now focus on saving lives and averting famine, there is also a need to increase resilience, development and climate responses so that those affected by recurring crises can adapt and thrive in the future. In all the United Nations system’s activities in Somalia, we are guided by the principles of respect for human rights and the full inclusion of women, young people and marginalized groups. We continue to rigorously apply the United Nations Due Diligence Policy on Human Rights and ensure both advocacy and technical support for the protection of human rights. The United Nations and the Government have begun the implementation of the flagship women, peace and protection programme, funded by the Peacebuilding Fund. The programme promotes women’s meaningful participation in peacebuilding processes and the protection of women and girls from sexual violence in conflict. On the youth front, the United Nations continues to integrate youth dimensions in electoral participation, mediation and civilian oversight of the security sector. In conclusion, let me stress that the conclusion of the electoral process on 15 May offers a long-awaited opportunity for Somalia to make progress on other urgent national priorities. We call on Somali leaders to work together in a spirit of collaboration and national purpose. We call on Somalia’s international friends and partners, including those on the Security Council, to offer constructive support and encouragement. Let us work together to capitalize on this moment of opportunity for Somalia.

I thank Mr. Swan for his briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Madeira. Mr. Madeira: I thank you, Madam President, for giving me the floor to brief the Security Council on Somalia. Let me start by congratulating you and your country, the United States of America, for assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of May. The most far-reaching development in Somalia in the period under consideration is the successful conclusion of the prolonged and painstaking electoral process, which culminated with the election of the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia on 15 May in a peaceful and favourable environment. On behalf of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), I wish to once again congratulate President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his victory and express our appreciation to the outgoing President, Mr. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, for subsequently accepting the electoral results, congratulating his successor, shaking hands with him and pledging to support him. This peaceful transfer of power, which consolidates and honours a practice that has now become Somalia’s political tradition, creates conditions conducive to the advancement of the national political dialogue and the deepening of reconciliation. These important tasks will require collaboration between the Federal Government and the federal member states. In that regard, I am pleased to note that the new Administration is already engaging regional leaders on critical national issues. With a new Parliament elected and a leadership legitimized by the people’s representatives, the doors are now open for a new chapter in the history of Somalia to be written — a chapter heralding hope, opportunity and determination of a people who was able to maintain its identity and idiosyncrasies despite all odds and vicissitudes. This is a people that has remained steadfast, resilient and determined to reconcile internally and end the war, bring about peace, develop the country and restore Somalia to its former glory and beyond. In that process, despite the robust campaign in support of an increased representation of women in the federal Parliament, the 30 per cent minimum quota for women was not achieved. That is a source of concern in our joint commitment — under the African Union’s Agenda 2063 — to ensure gender equality and priority. However, we are encouraged to see the election of Sadia Yasin Haji Samatar as the first female Deputy Speaker of the House of the People. ATMIS is proud to have been instrumental in its multiform support to the electoral process, particularly in the provision of the much-needed electoral security support alongside the Somalia security forces in Dhuusamarreeb, Jawhar, Beledweyne, Baidoa, Baraawe, Kismaayo, Gedo and Mogadishu, where together we were able to deliver an orderly, peaceful and secure presidential election in the midst of repeated threats and attacks by Al-Shabaab, including on the very day of the presidential election, with the goal of creating an environment of destabilization and violence, derailing the process and, eventually, stopping the election. But that did not happen. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud campaigned under the banner of putting Somalis in agreement with one another and in agreement with the world. In his electoral manifesto, he placed emphasis on liberating the country from Al-Shabaab, opening up the main supply routes, ensuring that the security forces remained republican and did not interfere in political processes, restoring justice and implanting a governance system based on the Constitution and social reconciliation, as well as prioritizing humanitarian issues, democratization, economic development and proactive foreign policy. Although we still have much to learn about the details in the transformation of those political objectives into Government programmes and plans, the spirit underlying peace policies is very much in line with what the AU Agenda 2063 stands for and the ATMIS mandate, as outlined at the 1,068th meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council, held on 8 March, and what resolution 2628 (2022), of 31 March, is all about. Helping to empower and support the Somali security forces achieve force generation; reconfiguring and implementing the Somali Transition Plan; supporting the efforts to degrade and put an end Al-Shabaab and other illegal armed groups; opening the main supply routes to facilitate the free and safe movement of people and goods throughout the country, thereby eliciting economic growth and social development; availing AU good offices through ATMIS in facilitating and finalizing the constitution; promoting justice; normalizing relations with all the federal member states; advancing reconciliation, good governance and democracy; and achieving one person, one vote universal suffrage by 2026 — all those are actions that give substance to, and justify the presence of, ATMIS in Somalia. We at ATMIS identify with the peace objectives, and we will be with the Somali Government and its people as they forge ahead to give substance to those aspirations and goals. Now is the time for the global community to proactively and constructively rally in support of the President of Somalia and his Government as they confidently start the long walk towards one person, one vote for the consolidation of democracy and good governance in the country. Throughout the electoral process, we saw an increase in Al-Shabaab’s destabilizing activities through the employment of asymmetrical means in the form of attacks using improvised explosive devices, probing attacks, grenade and mortar attacks, ambushes and targeted assassinations of senior Government officials, security forces, civilians and election delegates and officers. We also witnessed an increase in activities related to Al-Shabaab’s infiltration of its Amniyat operatives in major cities, with particular emphasis on Mogadishu, extortion, ground surveillance of friendly forces, forward operating bases (FOBs) and main supply routes and the recruitment and training of militants. In Mogadishu on 23 March, a group of armed of Al-Shabaab fighters disguised in military uniforms infiltrated the Aden Adde International Airport area and attacked the SafeLane Global company’s compound, resulting in five fatalities, including three international employees and one Somali police officer. On 19 February, a person-borne improvised explosive device exploded inside a restaurant in Beledweyne, resulting in the deaths of at least 18 people, including Government officials. The attack took place while a campaign meeting of electoral delegates and other officials was under way. On 23 March, an Al-Shabaab suicide bomber blew himself up near the Hiraan administrative headquarters, while electoral activities were taking place. The explosion was followed by an attack using a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, killing at least 50 people, including a member of Parliament, Amina Mohamed Abdi. Other trends in the activities of Al-Shabaab have included simultaneous attacks against AMISOM forward operating bases. In that context, in February, Al-Shabaab carried out a coordinated attack against the ATMIS FOB in Elbaraf, using a combination of available improvised explosive devices. What has become clear in those daring and heightened attacks is a resurgent Al-Shabaab that will continue to pose multiple challenges to both Somalia and ATMIS, which points to the urgent need for a robust and adequate response to the group. In that regard, the establishment of ATMIS on 1 April was followed by transition activities in close collaboration with the Federal Government, primarily focused on joint ATMIS-Somali security forces disruption operations throughout Somalia, securing main population centres and supply routes, mentoring and training Somali security forces and joint planning and coordination. As part of our joint planning, we have continued to hold regular meetings with the Somali armed forces, which included the holding of a first-quarter sector commanders’ conference in March. In order to begin the full implementation of the transition requirements, as stipulated in resolution 2628 (2022), ATMIS recently collapsed its forward operating base in Gololey, in sector 5, to create a mobile force. In addition, together with the Somali national armed forces, ATMIS is expected to undertake a series of planned activities that will also support its mandated reconfiguration. They include the convening of the second-quarter sector commanders’ conference, a logistics conference and an equipment review that will enable both ATMIS and the Somali national armed forces to develop a joint reconfiguration plan. Force generation and adequate and predictable funding and equipment attuned to force activity and mobility are key to degrading Al-Shabaab and ensuring the success of the transition. In order to achieve that within the 2024 timeline, it is vital to scale up air strategic support with transport and attack helicopters, as well as adequate offensive weapons in all sectors, for both ATMIS and Somali security forces to be effectively agile and mobile with the required speed so that they can surprise and successfully take on and subdue Al-Shabaab. Had part of those requirements been implemented in the field, Al-Shabaab’s attack against the ATMIS forward operating base in Ceel Baraf would not have been the same. Transition is only truly transition when its elements are visible and tangible. Therefore, it is critically important for the transition’s timely success that international partners prioritize enhanced support for the Federal Government to enable it to adequately raise, pay and equip a Somali security force capable and able to gradually, but effectively, assume full responsibility for the country’s security. It is in that vein, and with immense appreciation, that the AU welcomed the visit to Somalia by General Stephen Townsend, Commander of the United States Africa Command, to discuss cooperation between United States forces and the Somali National Army.

I thank Mr. Madeira for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements. I would like to draw the attention of speakers to paragraph 22 of presidential note S/2017/507, which encourages all participants in Council meetings to deliver their statements in five minutes or less, in line with the Security Council’s commitment to making more effective use of open meetings.

Let me thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Swan for his briefing. I will focus my remarks today on three topics: the presidential elections in Somalia, security and the humanitarian situation. The United Kingdom welcomes the completion of the presidential election on 15 May and warmly congratulates Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his election. Although the representation of women in Parliament was once again below the 30 per cent target, we welcome the historic election of Sadia Yasin Haji Samatar as Somalia’s first female Deputy Speaker. The conclusion of the electoral process provides an opportunity to end political uncertainty and refocus on issues of urgent national importance: addressing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab, maintaining fiscal stability, delivering constitutional reform and responding to the devastating drought. The United Kingdom stands ready to support President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s Government in its efforts, and encourages all Somalia’s leaders to work together in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration. Turning to security, we thank the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) for providing security support throughout the elections, and we condemn Al-Shabaab’s persistent attempts to disrupt the process. We send our condolences to those affected by the Al-Shabaab terrorist attack on the Burundi ATMIS contingent on 3 May. The ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab highlights the need for the new Government to secure broad-based political agreement on a national security architecture that is effective and affordable and that facilitates a sustainable transition to Somali-led security, while maintaining pressure on Al-Shabaab. The United Kingdom will continue to work with Somalia’s Federal Government and federal member states and alongside other international partners to achieve that. As we heard, the impact of the drought is alarming. It is increasingly likely that Somalia will face famine despite our collective commitment that that would never happen again. More funds and collective action are needed if we are to prevent famine in Somalia. The United Kingdom Minister for Africa announced an additional $31 million in response to the humanitarian crisis in Somalia, on top of the $25 million already committed this year. While we celebrate the recent achievements in Somalia, we must not lose sight of the work still needed to ensure that the situation continues to move forward in a peaceful and stable manner. We look forward to working with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his Government to advance peace, stability and prosperity in Somalia for the benefit of all Somalis.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Swan for his valuable insights, especially at this critical time. Norway welcomes the conclusion of the electoral process and congratulates President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his election. We thank the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia for assisting the elections process and for its cooperation on election financing. We are encouraged that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has clearly outlined national reconciliation, security, economic recovery and inclusive political stability as critical priorities ahead. We are particularly pleased that a constructive dialogue between the President and the International Monetary Fund on debt relief and economic reforms has started and has already yielded results. Political stability is fundamental to economic recovery and development for the Somali people. Revitalizing the constitutional reform process deserves the Government’s full attention and our support. That is a crucial step towards reaching consensus on federalism, national reconciliation and preparing for democratic elections in 2026. Norway looks forward to the swift formation of a new inclusive Federal Government that can advance those critical national priorities. As Somalia aims to take more responsibility for its own security and development over the coming years, the international community will continue to lend its support, but commitment and effective Somali leadership will be key. We are disappointed by the overall setback in the representation of women in Parliament, but congratulate Sadia Yasin Haji Samatar on being the first woman to hold the office of First Deputy Speaker. It is important to provide relevant and sufficient support and security to all newly elected women Members of Parliament, so that they can play their full role. We also remain deeply concerned about the overall security situation, particularly the persistent attacks by Al-Shabaab. The effective implementation of the Somali Transition Plan is key to restoring security and stability and protecting civilians. And we welcome the newly adopted mandate of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which lays the foundation for a new and more effective military response to Al-Shabaab by Somali security forces and ATMIS. However, that should be supplemented by a renewed and strengthened approach to national reconciliation and stabilization and a possible dialogue track. We also must not forget the persistent undercurrent: Somalia is on the brink of famine. There are more than 700,000 new internally displaced persons, and communities have faced multiple shocks  — from climate-induced recurring droughts and flooding to conflict, locusts, the coronavirus disease pandemic and rising prices of food and fuel — all resulting in grave consequences for the civilian population. For women and children in particular, the situation is devastating. Children’s access to education is significantly hampered. The right to education must be upheld, and protection against conflict-related sexual violence must remain a key priority for the Council. While all parties to the conflict must allow and facilitate full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, we also need to find more sustainable solutions to those recurring emergencies. Humanitarian and development stakeholders must ensure that their efforts are complementary, with a focus on scaling up life-saving assistance. In conclusion, Norway again welcomes the conclusion of the electoral process and looks forward to reinvigorated and constructive cooperation between Somalia and the Security Council in order to advance critical Somali priorities, reforms and the protection of civilians.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-Genera1 James Swan and Mr. Francisco Caetano José Madeira, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, for their briefings. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of Somalia, Ambassador Osman, to today’s meeting. France reiterates its congratulations to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his election. Despite all the challenges, the electoral process came to an end and led to a peaceful transition of power. It is a historic moment and an extremely important step towards stabilization in Somalia. We wish every success to President Mohamud and the future Federal Government of Somalia. They have France’s support. We encourage the new President to continue State-building efforts, as well as efforts to revise the Constitution and re-establish national harmony. That must therefore include in-depth dialogue between the Federal Government of Somalia and the federal member states. We also encourage the Somali authorities to continue their efforts to ensure the participation of women in the leadership of the country, through the 30 per cent quota of women in Parliament. France welcomes the election of Ms. Saadia Yasin Haji Samatar, the first Somali woman to become Deputy Speaker of the House of the People. We should also help Somalia address the extremely serious humanitarian crisis caused by drought and exacerbated by the unacceptable acts of Al-Shabaab, which hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid and include attacks on humanitarian and medical workers. In addition to providing humanitarian support to Somalia — approximately €115.7 million over the past few years — the European Union has also announced €348 million in aid to strengthen food security in the Horn of Africa. France is fully involved in providing that aid. France firmly condemns the terrorist attacks committed by Al-Shabaab, in particular those on 23 March and 3 May. We extend our condolences to Somalia, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Burundi and to the families of the victims. Those attacks confirm the urgency of engaging in a more effective fight against Al-Shabaab. Resolution 2628 (2022), which endorsed the reconfiguration of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) into ATMIS, is a step in the right direction, which should lead to specific changes on the ground. With ongoing funding to AMISOM over the past 15 years totalling €2.25 billion and the establishment of its three missions in Somalia, the European Union has demonstrated that it is a reliable partner and very eager to see transition in Somalia. Nonetheless, it is clear that no new funding for ATMIS, regardless of the amount, would suffice without Somali efforts to generate armed forces, together with the federal states, or without strong support from ATMIS to help Somali forces and conduct offensive operations with them. France therefore encourages the Government of Somalia and ATMIS contingents to resolutely commit to the security transition in order to achieve the objectives outlined in resolution 2628 (2022). There is no alternative, as attacks by Al-Shabaab keep reminding us. Lastly, France deplores the attack that occurred in Puntland on 6 March. I reiterate the readiness of the European Union Naval Force Operation Atalanta to provide maritime security support to Somalia, including in Somali territorial waters. Operation Atalanta not only helps to combat piracy, but it also helps to curb the illicit flows of arms and charcoal, which benefit Al-Shabaab, and to escort World Food Programme vessels, on which the Somali people very much depend in the current circumstances.

I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Swan and Special Representative Madeira for their briefings. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of Somalia to today’s meeting. Last week, the presidential election was successfully concluded in Somalia, turning a new page in its national governance. China welcomes that development and congratulates Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his election as the new President. We appreciate former President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed’s respect for the election results. The current election result in Somalia is hard- won. It reflects Somalia’s progress in exploring a development path suited to its own national conditions, while demonstrating the firm commitment of all parties in Somalia to maintaining national stability. We look forward to the smooth formation of the new Somali Government and sincerely hope that Somalia can use this opportunity to speed up national reconstruction and achieve long-term stability and security as soon as possible. Peace and stability in Somalia still face severe challenges. China strongly condemns the frequent terrorist attacks by Al-Shabaab, including the attack on the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which killed several Burundian peacekeepers, and the shelling of polling stations for the Somali presidential election. China highly appreciates the important contributions and major sacrifices made by ATMIS to maintain security and stability in Somalia. The key to handing over security responsibilities to Somalia is to implement the Somali Transition Plan, accelerate the formation and integration of its forces and effectively improve its own security capabilities. China supports the new Somali Government and ATMIS in strengthening coordination and communication during the security transition period. We expect that the United Nations, the Somali Government, the African Union and other relevant parties will discuss and define the sharing of responsibilities and the assessment benchmarks during the transition period, in accordance with the requirements of Security Council resolutions. We call on the major contributors to continue to provide sustainable and predictable financial support to the security forces of Somalia and ATMIS to ensure the effective implementation of relevant security programmes. The humanitarian situation in Somalia is worrisome. Unprecedented drought has devastated the lives of millions of people, while bringing to the fore the issue of food security in particular. United Nations humanitarian response plans are chronically underfunded, thereby hampering the effective implementation of emergency humanitarian operations. China calls on the international community not to neglect the humanitarian and development problems in Somalia and relevant inputs in the area, but to continue to help Somalia respond to the risk of famine and conduct more development cooperation projects. China is committed to assisting Somalia in its economic and social development through practical cooperation. Recently, it delivered new security and health assistance to Somalia and plans to provide Somalia with another set of emergency food aid. Under the leadership of Special Representative of the Secretary-General Swan, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) has collaborated with the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to actively implement its important mandate, use its political good offices and ensure capacity-building and coordination among all parties. China will continue to support the work of UNSOM and Special Representative Swan. Against the backdrop of the completion of its election and the start of the new security transition in Somalia, China supports the technical rollover of UNSOM so that the time can be used to conduct a strategic assessment to optimize the UNSOM mandate, according to the needs of the Somali Government and the functions of resident entities of other international organizations in Somalia in order to focus on key areas and bring its advantages into full play.

I, too, would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Swan and Ambassador Madeira for their briefings, and welcome the representative of Somalia to today’s meeting. Since our previous briefing in the Security Council (see S/PV.8965), several developments have occurred in Somalia. In that regard, I will focus my intervention on three points. First, concerning the elections, with the election of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as President, Somalia has ended a complicated and prolonged electoral cycle. Regarding the election for the House of the People, we welcome the first female Deputy Speaker of the House. However, that comes with regrets that the commitment of Somali authorities to the 30 per cent quota for women was not met. It is important to ensure women’s inclusion in the new Administration at all levels of Government, as their contribution is key. In congratulating the new President, it is our hope that the new Government that he forms will move fast to tackle urgent issues, including the economic reform programme agreed with the International Monetary Fund, the institutional reforms and the new focus on the security situation and the unfolding humanitarian crisis. Secondly, with regard to the security situation, on 31 March, we endorsed the decision to reconfigure the African Union Military Observer Mission in Somalia into the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia. Unfortunately, during the reporting period, we witnessed a certain lethargy towards fighting Al-Shabaab. The activities of the terrorist group are widespread, and it seems that its ability to conduct more complex deadly attacks has grown. We condemn in the strongest terms the most recent attack perpetrated by Al-Shabaab, which resulted in the death of several Burundi and Somali forces. Albania is particularly alarmed by the increase in civilian casualties caused by various perpetrators. Women and children are among those most affected by the conflict. It is also disturbing to see the lack of significant progress in countering impunity, which further fuels sexual and gender-based violence. All parties must respect their obligations under human rights and international humanitarian law, while justice must be brought against perpetrators to break the chain of violence in Somalia. Thirdly, the humanitarian situation is compounded by insecurity and the effects of climate change. Despite efforts by the authorities and their humanitarian partners to scale up mitigation assistance against the drought emergency in Somalia, the risk of famine remains high. The growing number of displaced people and those in need of assistance, as well as rising food insecurity, should draw the attention of, and a response from, the international community. In that vein, we also urge the authorities to ensure humanitarian access so that operators can reach those in urgent need. Finally, we commend the work of Special Representative Swan and his team in providing assistance to the Somali Government and stakeholders, including throughout the electoral process.

I would like to thank Special Representative Swan and Ambassador Madeira for their remarks at the beginning of our meeting. I extend special thanks to Special Representative Swan and his entire team for their commitment and tireless efforts over the past year and a half in supporting Somalia through the election process. We greatly appreciate that. I would like to begin by commending the people of Somalia and their leaders on completing elections. We know that there were some regrettable delays, but the peaceful transition of power that we are now witnessing is welcome and critical to creating the stable political environment needed to tackle Somalia’s long- standing challenges. It is also important to pay tribute to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the Somali security forces for providing security for the entire election process. That was not without cost. I want to express my deepest condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in recent months, including African Union peacekeepers. I would like to wish the incoming Parliament well in living up to the expectations of the Somali people for peace, prosperity and good governance. We congratulate Sadia Yasin Haji Samatar for being the first woman to ever hold the role of Deputy Speaker, although it is certainly regrettable that the goal of electing 30 per cent women was not met in the elections. I want to encourage the incoming Administration to build on its electoral promises and ensure the meaningful participation of women throughout the new Administration, including at senior decision-making levels. I offer our sincere congratulations to the new President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. I was struck by the positive and conciliatory tone of his acceptance speech and his urging of the country to look to the future. That is exactly what Somalia needs now. There is no doubt that a lot rests on his shoulders, but the United Nations and Somalia’s partners will continue to be there to support him in addressing both Somalia’s long- and short-term priorities. Among the most urgent of those priorities will be the dire humanitarian crisis in Somalia. As we have heard, millions of people are now at risk from climate-induced shocks, including the devastating drought gripping the country and looming famine. There is no time to lose. There will need to be critical political decisions taken in the coming weeks to ensure that Somalia’s most marginalized and affected communities are protected from hunger and death. Of course, we in the international community must also step up our support. Equally, the human rights of all Somalis, in particular those of women and girls, must be prioritized, protected and respected. As the Secretary-General has told us, increasingly, many are the victims of abhorrent sexual violence. I call on the new President to recommit to complying with Somalia’s obligations to prevent violations against its own citizens, to end impunity for perpetrators and to support survivors. Al-Shabaab systematically targeted the elections. And it is to Somalia’s credit that, despite that, in the end the presidential elections went ahead on 15 May as planned. Now that the elections are over, we must look forward. The African Union, the Somali Government and its forces and all partners need to refocus on implementing the ATMIS mandate and addressing the Somali Transition Plan. A key element will be strengthening Somalia’s national security architecture and ensuring genuine security sector reform in order for Somalia to gradually take full responsibility for its own security. The European Union will remain steadfast in our support for Somalia’s security throughout that next phase. Last but not least, I urge the new Administration to steer the country and its politics on a path of dialogue, inclusivity and consensus that delivers for the Somali people. Strengthening national reconciliation and forging an equitable political settlement are fundamental to progressing State-building measures, including finalizing Somalia’s Constitution and establishing a constitutional court. The time for dispute is over. As the Somali national reconciliation framework describes it, now is the moment to turn attention to repairing the broken Haan, to protecting all citizens equally and to weaving a new future for Somalia out of all its diverse parts.

I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, namely, Ghana, Kenya and my country, Gabon (A3). We welcome the report of the Secretary-General (S/2022/392) and thank Mr. James Swan, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), and Mr. Francisco Madeira, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), for their respective briefings on the situation in Somalia and their activities. The A3 congratulates President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his victory in the 15 May presidential election and on his official inauguration on 23 May after a peaceful transfer of power following a 15-month electoral process. We very much look forward to the swift establishment of a new Government that can focus on resolving the many complex challenges the country continues to face after decades of political instability and insecurity. The decisive role and commitment of the Somali security forces and ATMIS in securing the elections deserves to be commended. We also commend the role played by UNSOM and other regional and international partners in providing strategic advice and good offices. We also recognize the particular commitment of the electoral team in preserving the integrity of the process, as well as the Somali people for their continued commitment to a credible and successful democratic process. The A3 also welcomes the commitment of the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to Somalia, including through support for efforts aimed at democratic governance, the promotion of national reconciliation and the restoration of peace and security and stability in the country. We are convinced that the success of the elections will mark a real turning point for Somalia and its people. The momentum generated by the new President and his incoming Government will result in tangible progress in stabilizing the security situation, implementing the necessary economic, judicial and constitutional reforms and finding adequate solutions to the humanitarian disaster fuelled by the devastating effects of drought and famine. The terrorist activities perpetrated by the Al-Qaida- affiliated terrorist group Al-Shabaab and its Islamic State affiliates are of great concern to Somalia, the region and our continent as a whole. Al-Shabaab continues to carry out deadly attacks in Somalia. The recent cross- border events in the region reflect its ability to adapt and its considerable capacity to inflict damage on security and civilian infrastructure, thus exacerbating human suffering. The A3 roundly condemns all the attacks perpetrated by those terrorist groups. The A3 members echo the appeal made by the African Union’s Peace and Security Council to invite Somalia’s international partners to make a further commitment to ensure sustainable and predictable financing for ATMIS, so as to enable it to discharge its mandate effectively over the next 30 months, until responsibilities are handed over to the Somali security forces. Such adequate financing is vital in order to preserve the security gains made so far in Somalia and to bring about peace and stability in the face of the threat of the spread of terrorism throughout the countries of the region. We pay sincere tribute to the African Union Mission in Somalia — now ATMIS — whose soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice, paying a heavy price in the fight against Al-Shabaab. Foreign terrorist fighters integrated into Al-Shabaab and their affiliates from the Islamic State operating on Somali territory also represent a serious and immediate threat to the region owing to their ability to carry out complex attacks. Those foreign fighters, allied with the various clan militias that exist in Somalia, make for an explosive security cocktail and an enormous challenge for the new leaders. We therefore call for capacity- building for the Somali forces in terms of equipment and training so as to enable them to discharge their urgent duty of securing the territory against those groups. Furthermore, we express our support for adequate funding for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programme, which is a crucial stage in the process of moving towards a Somali State free from any security threats. We call on all international partners to support Somalia at this critical time in the country’s history. We are appalled by the continued suffering of children, women and elderly persons, who very often are, sadly, confronted with every possible form of violence. We condemn in particular the recruitment of children to become terrorists or carry out acts of violent extremism. We also condemn the other heinous practices carried out against those people, including abuse, murder, mutilation and sexual abuse. That treatment is intolerable, and we call for respect for international humanitarian law and human rights law. Schools and hospitals are places of life that should not be attacked. We call on international partners and Somalia to take all measures necessary to fight against the use of mines and explosive devices against children and refrain from making their future even darker. It is essential to build a robust legal basis founded on the rule of law and respect for human dignity in order to protect and bring justice to all victims of abuse, in particular children who are the victims of atrocities committed by terrorist groups. (spoke in English) We are deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Somalia. Besides the security challenges, the dire situation is being constrained by the adverse effects of climate change, whose harmful consequences are already being felt by the most vulnerable groups in society. We recall that Somalia is facing one of the worst droughts in decades, and, with the erosion of people’s survival mechanisms, most continue to flee the arid areas. Those devastating weather conditions are leading to the displacement of thousands of people. We note that in the first week of March, more than 17,000 people were internally displaced owing to drought in the southern Bay region of central Somalia. With the worsening drought, nearly 6 million people in Somalia, or about 40 per cent of the country’s population, are facing food insecurity and are effectively at risk of famine. We urge international and regional donors and all partners of Somalia to increase their support for humanitarian assistance and for the Somali authorities to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need. The people of Somalia are counting on us, the international community, and the Somali Government to provide lasting solutions to the problems that affect their daily lives. Our inaction will increase the vulnerability of those populations, increasing displacement and intensifying conflict. In that regard, the A3 commends the outstanding work of humanitarian organizations, which, at the risk of their lives, are providing continual support to the people of Somalia. In conclusion, Ghana, Kenya and Gabon reiterate our support for the Federal Government of Somalia and our full support for UNSOM. We look forward to the report of the Secretary-General, who, in consultation with the Federal Government of Somalia, will issue recommendations on the future of UNSOM later this year.

Let me begin by thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary- General for Somalia, Mr. James Swan, and the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia, Ambassador Madeira, for their briefings. I also welcome the delegation of Somalia to this meeting. My delegation will raise three points today. First, I would like to reiterate our congratulations to the Somali people. Brazil commends Somalia on the peaceful conclusion of its elections. We wish President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the new Government a successful term. Secondly, I would like to emphasize our support for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM). Brazil shares the sense of priority that surrounds the upcoming mandate renewal. We are confident that UNSOM will maintain its core objectives with its new authorization. We are also convinced that its future strategic review will provide additional assistance to policymaking and peacebuilding in Somalia. Thirdly, I would like to underline Brazil’s condemnation of terrorism in all its forms. The recent attacks have once again made the people of Somalia deal with deaths and injuries to their dear sons and daughters. Earlier this month, Al-Shabaab claimed the lives of African Blue Helmets, mostly Burundian peacekeepers. Those African Union Transition Mission in Somalia soldiers and all who have worked on behalf of the African Union forces have been taking part in of one of the most dangerous tasks that a person could face. Therefore, we deeply appreciate the work that African peacekeepers have been bravely carrying out for more than a decade and are grateful to the contributing countries.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, James Swan, and the Special Representative of the African Union, Francisco Madeira, for their detailed briefings. We welcome the participation in today’s meeting of the Permanent Representative of Somalia to the United Nations, Abukar Dahir Osman. We have also studied carefully the most recent report of the Secretary-General (S/2022/392). We congratulate our Somali colleagues on the successful parliamentary and presidential elections and the official entry into office today of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. We welcome the contribution of the African Union Mission in Somalia, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and Mr. Swan personally in achieving that result. We hope that the Somali authorities will soon be able to form a new Federal Government and focus on the task of State-building and dealing with urgent problems, including the fight against terrorism and overcoming the consequences of an unusual drought. We call on our Somali partners to devote greater attention to security issues. We are seriously concerned by the notable activity of Al-Shabaab against the backdrop of elections not only in the regions but also in the capital. There was an incursion into the safe zone of the international airport in Mogadishu in March, and there was also an attack on the Burundi contingent in ATMIS in El Baraf at the beginning of May. This is evidence of the fact that Al-Shabaab’s strength is growing. We hope that ATMIS, which in March received unanimous support from the Security Council (see S/PV.9009), will meet the objectives on its agenda, so that ultimately Mogadishu be able to take on complete responsibility for security in the country. In saying this, we are convinced that the effectiveness of the Mission’s work will in many ways depend on the stability of the financing for African peacekeepers. As before, we believe that the transfer of responsibility to the Somali army should take place gradually, as a function of the real situation on the ground. In the current conditions, where there is still a terrorist threat, it would be too early to talk about ending the Transition Mission. We call on the United Nations, international and regional partners to continue assisting Somalia while complying with the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of the country and without meddling in its domestic affairs. We believe that there is a way of improving the effectiveness of international assistance, which would be through a strategic review of the activities of the special political mission headed by Mr. Swan, and we are ready to provide any necessary support for this work.

I thank Special Representative Swan and Special Representative Madeira for their briefings, and we welcome the delegation of Somalia to today’s meeting. Mexico congratulates the people and the Government of Somalia on the conclusion of peaceful presidential elections held on 15 May, as well as Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on his election as the tenth president of Somalia. We recognize the critical role of the members of parliament, the presidential election organizing committee and the Somali security forces, as well as the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), throughout the election process. We applaud the election of Mrs. Saadia Yasin Haji Samatar as the first female Deputy Speaker of the House of the People in the history of Somalia. However, we regret that the target of 30 percent of seats held by women in parliament has not been reached and that the number of women elected to the House of the People is less than the number achieved in 2016. The selection of officials for the new Administration remains ongoing. We hope that women will be adequately represented in the Government and that elected women parliamentarians will participate meaningfully in decision-making. Mexico urges the new Government of Somalia to prioritize peace and dialogue and to spare no effort to ensure the well-being of the Somali people. The multiple challenges facing Somalia call for learning from past mistakes and avoiding friction among the main federal authorities and fostering collaboration with federal member states. In this regard, Mexico calls on all political actors to work together in good faith in order to implement agreements for the benefit of the population. My country condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Al-Shabaab. Mexico expresses its great concern that the group continues to generate sufficient income to sustain its insurgency through extortion, control of agriculture and illicit trafficking in arms and explosives. It is urgent to put an end to this terrorist group’s access to financial services and to exercise effective controls over arms transfers and ensure the effectiveness of the embargo. We also express our deep concern about the high levels of sexual and gender-based violence and grave violations against children in Somalia. We call on the new Somali authorities to accelerate the full implementation of their commitments to ending these violations and to take steps to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Mexico reiterates the need to address the grave humanitarian situation in Somalia. It is truly worrying that from January 2022 to date, the number of people facing food shortages has increased from 2 million to 6 million. Like the rest of the countries in the Horn of Africa, Somalia is being affected by the worst drought in 40 years, which is aggravating the humanitarian situation in the country, increasing the risk of localized famine and causing large-scale displacement. Climate change also increases the threat of insecurity, exacerbating tensions and competition between communities for resources, which in turn gives Al-Shabaab scope to exploit these conditions and consolidate their dominance. In this regard, we find it important that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) continues to consider the adverse implications of climate change in Somalia. We also recognize UNSOM’s essential role in other areas, such as strategic advice to Somali authorities, coordination of support from international partners, electoral support and its efforts for women’s empowerment. Mexico looks forward to UNSOM’s strategic review to see how the Mission can continue to support Somalia. Finally, we reaffirm the importance of coordination between UNSOM, ATMIS and the United Nations Support Office in Somalia in carrying out their mandates. Their presence on the ground and coordinated work should contribute to moving the country towards greater security, social and political stability and sustainable peace.

I would like to thank both the Special Representative James Swan, and the Special Representative Francisco Madeira for their comprehensive briefings. We also welcome the participation of the representative of Somalia in today’s meeting. I would like to join my colleagues in congratulating His Excellency Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on being elected President of Somalia and wish him success during his tenure. The United Arab Emirates welcomes the successful conclusion of the electoral process in Somalia, which serves as a definitive step towards peace and stability in the country. At this critical and historic juncture for Somalia, it is necessary to increase focus on addressing the urgent challenges the country faces, especially terrorism and the impact of drought. For its part, the United Arab Emirates will continue to stand by the people of Somalia as they work to build a peaceful and prosperous country that reflects and fulfils their collective aspirations. In the light of the current developments, I would like to focus on three issues. First, we echo the call of the Secretary-General for continued security assistance for Somalia, so that it can strengthen its capabilities to confront the serious threats posed by the Al-Shabab terrorist group in terms of the security and stability of the country. Over the last few weeks alone, Al-Shabaab has continued to launch complex deadly attacks that have inflicted harm on the Somali people and weakened the Somali security forces, which could ultimately derail State-led efforts and State-building priorities. We reiterate our support for the African Union Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which remains a crucial partner in confronting Al-Shabaab and the affiliates of Da’esh in Somalia. In this regard, it is important to ensure that the transfer of security responsibilities from ATMIS to the Somali security forces be carried out carefully and effectively to prevent the creation of any security vacuum that could enable Al-Shabaab to expand its influence and scope. It is also important to note that not only does Al-Shabaab pose a threat to Somalia and its people, but it also undermines peace and stability elsewhere in the region, which was quite evident in Al-Shabaab’s cross-border attacks against neighbouring countries, including Kenya. The United Arab Emirates condemns those terrorist acts and reaffirms its solidarity with the people of Kenya. My country also supports all efforts, including international partnerships, that seek to put an end to the growing transnational threats posed by Al-Shabaab in Africa. We remain concerned about reports on the smuggling of weapons between Somalia and Yemen, which risk falling in the hands of terrorist groups, such as Al-Shabaab and the Houthis, and threaten the stability of the region, international trade and the safety of navigation. In that regard, we stress the important role of the Combined Maritime Forces, which remains critical in combating the smuggling of weapons off the coast of Somalia, in cooperation with the Government of Somalia and in accordance with resolution 2607 (2021). Secondly, the dire humanitarian situation in Somalia is also of concern, in particular since it is being further exacerbated by the worsening drought and subsequent acute food insecurity, both of which disproportionately affect women and children. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, nearly 800,000 people have been displaced by drought since early 2021, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees recently reported that 4.8 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity. Therefore, my country calls on the international community to swiftly respond to the crisis, double its humanitarian aid to Somalia and ensure its safe and unhindered delivery. In that context, last week the United Arab Emirates, in cooperation with United Arab Emirates- based humanitarian agencies, announced a new financial assistance package to Somalia amounting to approximately $11 million dollars. Thirdly, we would also like to highlight the urgent need for ATMIS, the United Nations country team and others to build on the pioneering climate and peacebuilding work in Somalia. Coordinated investment in food, water and basic services in fragile communities is one of the best investments that the United Nations and its partners can make for stability and recovery. We particularly note the breakthrough model that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) offers for bringing private capital to build renewable energy infrastructure that powers both peacekeepers and host communities, creating a positive legacy that outlasts the international presence. In conclusion, we would like to once again reiterate the commitment of the United Arab Emirates to promote peace, prosperity and stability in Somalia. We also commend the tireless efforts of ATMIS and the troop-contributing countries that support the Mission and continue to pay the ultimate price for achieving peace in Somalia. Furthermore, we also support the mandates of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia and UNSOM.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General James Swan and Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia Francisco Madeira for their respective briefings on the most recent developments in Somalia. I also welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Somalia at today’s meeting. The people of Somalia have the unique honour of being Africa’s first democrats. The culmination of the election process, although delayed, is an opportunity to revive that legacy. The democratic process in Somalia, despite its constraints, has finally resulted in a peaceful transfer of power. That would not have been possible but for the resolve and commitment of the Somali leadership, as well as the persistent efforts of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the African Union, the United Nations and the international community. We welcome those developments and congratulate the people of Somalia and its leadership. We also extend our best wishes to His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and fondly recall his long-standing association with India. The challenges to the new Government in Somalia are many. The Special Representative of the Secretary- General referred to the priorities outlined by the new President. At the top of the list is the security situation, which has remained worrisome, with Al-Shabaab continuing to perpetrate attacks in recent months against the Somali security forces, the African Union Mission in Somalia and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The Al-Shabaab terror attack on the ATMIS forward operating base in Ceel Baraf, on 3 May, once again demonstrated its striking power. We express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the 10 Burundian peacekeepers who were martyred in the attack and to the people and the Government of the Republic of Burundi. Terrorism is the biggest threat to Somalia and the Horn of Africa region. Preventing terror outfits such as Al-Shabaab from accessing financial resources is crucial. Equally important is to recognize and address the linkages between terrorism and transnational organized crime. Against that background, we encourage the new Government to take measures to strengthen the security forces and address the governance issues in the areas dominated by Al-Shabaab, as well as other priorities, including constitutional and judicial reforms. The challenges posed by Al-Shabaab also require concerted efforts and action from the countries in the region. The implementation of the Somali Transition Plan and national security architecture needs to be prioritized with better coordination and integration of regional security forces. ATMIS has several onerous responsibilities, primarily to reduce the threat posed by the terror group Al-Shabaab. We note with concern that ATMIS financing issues have yet to be resolved. Ensuring sustainable and predictable funding for ATMIS is an obligation of the international community. The consolidation of the security gains achieved in Somalia in the recent years also requires constant support from the international community to Somalia and ATMIS. The international community should not lose sight of the humanitarian situation in Somalia. More than 7.7 million are need of urgent assistance, especially in the wake of the worst drought in the Horn of Africa in 40 years, which puts millions at risk of famine. Scaling up humanitarian efforts must be a top priority, as the 2022 humanitarian response plan, requiring $1.5 billion, remains barely funded. In conclusion, India and Somalia share two millenniums of civilizational exchanges across the seas. India continues to support Somalia through development assistance and capacity-building programmes. As the new Government in Somalia takes charge, we reiterate our commitment to support Somalia and its people.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of the United States. I thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Swan for his presentation and for being with us today. We commend him and his team’s work. And we fully support the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, so that the Mission can continue to serve its vital role in Somalia. I also want to thank Ambassador Madeira for his briefing, and I welcome the Permanent Representative of Somalia at our meeting today. Today I would like to focus on three aspects of the situation in Somalia: the recent elections, the terrorist threat from Al-Shabaab and the dire humanitarian and economic crises. First, the United States welcomes the completion of Somalia’s electoral process. And we congratulate President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for winning the presidential election, as well as all the members of Parliament on their elections. We are particularly pleased to congratulate Deputy Speaker Saadia Samatar on her election. The United States looks forward to working closely with the country’s newly elected leaders to help extend governance, security and economic opportunity for the people of Somalia. We look forward to the timely nomination and parliamentary approval of a prime minister and cabinet. After more than four years of political infighting, reconciliation among the national Government and federal member states is vital for the country to regain positive momentum and tackle the serious challenges it faces. Secondly, Al-Shabaab continues to pose a menacing threat. The horrific attack on 3 May against the Burundian National Defence Force base in Ceel Baraf is all the proof we need. We strongly condemn the attack, and we offer our condolences to the victims’ loved ones. Somalia’s security and that of the region rely on us using every tool in our arsenal to fight terrorism. That means providing support to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia and Somalia’s security forces. It means using the Somalia sanctions regime to designate Al-Shabaab operatives, who continue to threaten Somalia’s peace and security. It also means alleviating the horrific humanitarian conditions that inspire extremism. That leads me to my third and final point. The new Somali Government must address the dire humanitarian situation, including the plight of the more than 6 million people who may go hungry or thirsty because of the devastating drought. Of course, given the worsening crisis, that is a challenge no country can address alone, and it is not caused by Somalia alone. As Secretary Blinken noted in the Security Council last week (see S/PV.9036), if Russia’s brutal war of choice continues to prevent wheat and other foods from reaching Somalia, it may very well push the country over the brink of famine. That is why we have to rally the world to bolster the global food supply, strengthen food resiliency and provide humanitarian aid to those in dire need. To meet that challenge, last week we hosted a series of days of action on global food security. It is why we led a road map for global food security — a call to action — and we are proud of the more than 30 Member States that signed on. It is why, late last month, the United States announced more than $200 million in additional assistance to respond to humanitarian needs in the Horn of Africa. Of course, tied directly to the humanitarian situation is Somalia’s economic well-being, which will depend on its ability to meet the conditions required for reaching the completion point under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative. We call on the President and the new Government to engage international financial institutions as soon as possible to ensure that that process remains on track. The United States strongly supports the Somali people. We want a Somalia that is abundant with food and water and a Somalia that enjoys a thriving democracy and plenty of prosperity. Let us all work together to support the new Government to help them address these crises and to work towards better days. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I would like to again draw the attention of speakers to paragraph 22 of presidential note S/2017/507, which encourages all participants in Council meetings to deliver their statements in five minutes or less, in line with the Security Council’s commitment to making more effective use of open meetings. I give the floor to the representative of Somalia.

At the outset, I would like to congratulate you, Madam President, on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for this month, and I wish you all the best in fulfilling your mandate. I want to thank the briefers for their briefings on the recent developments in my country. The presidential election took place on the eve of the seventy-ninth anniversary of the founding of the first political party in Somalia  — the Somali Youth League, which was singularly instrumental in achieving the independence and unity of Somalia in 1960. In the process, the Somali Youth League also helped to create one of Africa’s first democracies. The optimism and hope created by the Somali Youth League nearly a century ago are also a major source of our current optimism for achieving peace and prosperity, thereby leading towards a better Somalia. With the election of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, we continue our proud, long-standing tradition of the peaceful transition of power in Africa. The newly elected President and the Parliament are now ready to continue to deepen federalism and reconciliation and to tackle the socioeconomic, structural and political issues that millions of Somali women, men and children face in their daily lives. Those tasks will not be easy, but we are confident in our partners’ support, especially in clearing Somalia’s arrears to allow us to move along a path towards the completion of the debt-relief process and access to international financial institutions, which are essential ingredients for economic development and the improvement of the living conditions of the people of Somalia. The more immediate challenge, of course, is the insecurity, namely, the threat of Al-Shabaab, which has caused major losses in terms of both human lives and wealth in Somalia. There is no doubt that we are succeeding in the fight against Al-Shabaab in a multipronged approach, embedded in the political strategy. The brave Somali national forces are dismantling Al-Shabaab hideouts and financial networks as we prepare to assume full security responsibility from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, to pave the way for its agreed exit by 2024. I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the troop- and police-contributing countries’ personnel and recognize their sacrifices. As Council members are aware, my country is also facing a protracted and recurring humanitarian crisis, coupled with the convergence in 2020 into the triple threat of flooding, desert locusts and the coronavirus disease. We are grateful for our humanitarian partners’ generous recent appeal to assist in our response to the life-threatening needs. Nevertheless, humanitarian assistance alone cannot provide a sustainable or cost- effective solution to the recurring shocks in Somalia, as that requires substantial development investment through our national development plan and strengthening the nexus between humanitarian and developmental assistance. That will help us utilize our Government systems and achieve medium- to long-term solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and target our citizens, who are experiencing vulnerability. In conclusion, we are committed to continuing to work together to overcome any obstacles in our path in a democratic way, in line with our Constitution. We wish to reiterate our appreciation to the African Union and the United Nations for their steadfast support of the Somali people, and we look forward to working with international and regional partners towards a peaceful, secure and prosperous Horn of Africa.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I will now adjourn the meeting so that the Council can continue its discussion on the subject in closed consultations.