SECURITY COUNCIL PRESS STATEMENT ON SOMALIA

 

Following is the Security Council press statement on Somalia read out on 23 March by Council President Dumisani S. Kumalo ( South Africa):

The members of the Security Council express their concern about the resumption of violent clashes in Somalia, especially in the capital Mogadishu, and outrage over the shooting down of a cargo airplane, which took off from the city’s airport.

The members of the Security Council strongly condemn the desecration of bodies of soldiers in Mogadishu, which is considered a violation of international humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council are particularly concerned about the humanitarian situation in Somalia, which continues to deteriorate, greatly increasing the suffering of Somalis.

The members of the Security Council stress the need to desist from further acts of violence, adhere to international humanitarian law and afford unimpeded access for relief workers.

They also reiterate their call for an immediate all-inclusive political dialogue, which is essential for the return of peace and stability in Somalia.

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For information media • not an official record