Security Council Press Statement on Somalia
The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Liu Jieyi (China):
On 4 February, the United Nations Security Council was briefed by Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, Nicholas Kay, and the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Maman Sidikou (via videoconference from Mogadishu), on the situation in Somalia.
The members of the Security Council expressed their concern at the ongoing political crisis in Somalia, its negative effect on delivery of progress for the Somali people, and its impact on peace and stability. In this context, they recalled the Security Council press statement of 10 December, which stressed that swift and sustained restoration of political stability is vital. They encouraged greater efforts from all of Somalia’s political leadership, including the President, Prime Minister and Parliament, to work together to establish quickly an inclusive and representative government.
The members of the Security Council urged the new Government, once formed, to accelerate delivery of the milestones of the Federal Government’s “Vision 2016” and, in this context, stressed the importance of establishing the National Independent Electoral Commission without further delay.
The members of the Security Council re-emphasized the importance of Somalia’s leaders, including the new Government, the President and Parliament, developing effective mechanisms to prevent prolonged political crises in the future.
The members of the Security Council underscored their determination to continue to support all international efforts aimed at ending the threat posed by Al-Shabaab, and creating a conducive atmosphere for peacebuilding and sustainable development in Somalia.
The members of the Security Council underlined their resolute support for the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia. They also recalled their significant support to the people and Federal Government of Somalia, in a sustained and integrated approach, including through UNSOM [United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia] and through AMISOM [United Nations support to the African Union Mission in Somalia].
The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support to both the Special Representative of the Secretary-General Nicholas Kay and UNSOM, as well as to the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, Maman Sidikou and AMISOM as they continue to deliver their respective mandates.