Security Council Press Statement on Terrorist Attack in Mogadishu

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Liu Jieyi (China):

The members of the Security Council strongly condemn the attack on 20 February on the Central Hotel in Mogadishu, perpetrated by Al-Shabaab, which has caused the death and injury of many innocent Somalis, including Government officials and Members of Parliament as well as staff at the hotel.  They expressed their deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, many of whom were gathered for Friday prayers, as well as to the people and Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia.  The members of the Security Council also wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

The members of the Security Council paid tribute to the swift response and courage of the Somali National Security Forces in responding to this attack.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, wherever and whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with their responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law, and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Somali authorities in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights law, international humanitarian law and refugee law.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their support to all actors working towards more peace and stability in Somalia, including both UNSOM (United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia) and AMISOM (African Union Mission in Somalia).