We must work together to ensure a responsible and sustainable drawdown of UNSOM: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Somalia.
I will make four points on behalf of the UK.
First, we express our deepest condolences to the families of the 37 civilians killed in al-Shabaab鈥檚 horrific attack on Mogadishu鈥檚 Lido beach on the 2nd of August, and of all other civilians killed in Somalia in the recent months. We commend the continued efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to tackle al-Shabaab.聽
Second, we thank Somalia and the UN for their consultation on the future of the UNSOM mandate. As we look towards UNSOM鈥檚 two-year transition, the UK is working with stakeholders to ensure a gradual, responsible and sustainable drawdown of the mission, including the progressive and phased transfer of the mission鈥檚 tasks to the Federal Government of Somalia, the UN Country Team and other stakeholders.聽
It is essential that during the transition the mission has the resources and capabilities necessary for continued delivery on those areas critical to Somalia鈥檚 needs. We thank the SRSG for the continued, constructive execution of his responsibilities.聽
And as we move into the transition period, the role of SRSG remains vital. We also look forward to working closely with all Council members this month on the transitional mission鈥檚 mandate.
Third, we note the upcoming Federal Member State elections. We echo the Secretary General鈥檚 call for all stakeholders to work together to resolve differences on electoral modalities and timelines, and we are watching closely the outcomes of the National Consultative Council meeting this week.聽
I support Ms. Elman鈥檚 comments on the importance of an approach inclusive of civil society, women and youth in聽Somalia鈥檚聽political and peacebuilding processes.
Fourth, we welcome the continued progress on the planning for the African Union-led successor mission to ATMIS. We underline the importance of the UN and AU consulting broadly, in line with resolution 2748, to ensure the overall mission design and financing options are viable and deliverable. We look forward to next week鈥檚 interim update, and the detailed reporting on the 15th of November.
Finally President, I would also like to welcome Somalia and all incoming members as they begin observing Council proceedings this month. We look forward to working closely with Somalia from January on the full range of Security Council business.