YouSaid · the spoken record

Souef

lines on the record: 52
first: 2023-02-22
most recent: 2023-10-19
sittings or episodes: 3
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“I also express profound gratitude for the support extended throughout the years by traditional and non-traditional partners to the Somali security forces and ATMIS — previously the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) — and I request sustained support, including through the United Nations trust fund for the Somali security forces, to ensure a successful transition process.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“That is ongoing, and we are beginning to see the results. Secondly, as the Council considers the African Union Peace and Security Council’s communiqué 1177, it remains vital that its endorsement of the technical pause address the growing financial deficit faced by ATMIS as the Mission prepares to exit in December 2024. As previously indicated by many members of the Council, the ongoing efforts to transfer security responsibilities to the Somali security forces must be matched with sustainable, predictable and adequate funding through a consideration of assessed contributions for ATMIS and similar AU peace support operations. It is in that regard that I convey the African Union’s commitment to burden-sharing, including through the allocation of funds from the African Union Peace Fund to support ATMIS operations.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“In that context, the Council should, as a first step in November, consider lifting the current arms embargo on Somalia. That is also in the light of the technical assessment report (see S/2022/698) on the benchmarks stipulated in resolution 2662 (2022), which clearly highlights the important progress made by Somalia in meeting the conditions for lifting the arms embargo. As the African Union anticipates a positive endorsement of African Union Peace and Security Council’s communiqué 1177, it is important to underscore two key points. First, the technical pause of the phase 2 drawdown will now provide Somalia, ATMIS and key partners the opportunity to secure the collective gains we have all made in Somalia. The pause will create space and time for a reassessment of the operational needs of the Somali National Army to defeat Al-Shabaab.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“The African Union’s decided to support the technical pause in recognition of Somalia’s operational realities, including the successes and setbacks in the ongoing offensive against Al-Shabaab. The Federal Government’s request also represented a pragmatic response to the current security transition realities. While the African Union looks forward to the Council’s endorsement of the African Union Peace and Security Council’s communiqué 1177, it remains vital that the drawdown of ATMIS troops be informed and guided by a careful assessment of the prevailing security situation and the capability of the Somali security forces. That must aim to avail the Somali security forces with the necessary firepower to take over security responsibilities while also undertaking its offensive against Al-Shabaab.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“It will, however, require extensive resources to limit the negative impact of El Niño, and the Council is invited to continue supporting humanitarian action in Somalia. As the Council is already aware, the Government of Somalia formally transmitted a letter to the President of the Security Council in September, requesting a technical pause in the phase 2 drawdown of 3,000 ATMIS personnel. The Government’s note underscored that a technical pause would provide the necessary time to address the significant challenges identified in the joint technical assessment and further provide an opportunity to address the current security dynamic across Somalia. In response to that request, the African Union Peace and Security Council met on 30 September and issued its communiqué 1177, according to which it agreed to support Somalia’s request.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“I also wish to express concern about the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to increase the risks of flooding along the main two rivers, the Juba and the Shabelle, likely leading to the loss of lives, property, population displacement, disease outbreak and the destruction of infrastructure and crops. El Niño is likely to worsen the humanitarian situation in internally displaced person camps, including those next to ATMIS forward operating bases. It is also expected to reduce the operational tempo of the Somali security forces and ATMIS and to disrupt road resupply. As ATMIS, we have already established, in consultation with UNSOM and UNSOS, a Mission-wide disaster management committee to coordinate the Mission’s mitigation, preparedness and early action.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“They must be supplemented by other enabling elements, such as dedicated support to the Federal Government of Somalia’s reconciliation and stabilization efforts, comprising the promotion of social cohesion and the extension of State authority, including to the newly liberated areas. Through the national reconciliation framework, Somalia has demonstrated the political will to pursue dialogue. Through the Somali security forces and ATMIS, there is sufficient capacity to protect civilians. And through ATMIS, UNSOS, UNSOM and the United Nations country team, there is the necessary platform to coordinate support to Somalia’s stabilization and reconciliation efforts. We must not lose sight of those important aspects.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“In line with Somali security forces and ATMIS operational requirements, the Raga Ceel FOB, an ATMIS FOB in Middle Shabelle was handed over to the Somali security forces on 18 October to constitute mobile forces. Moreover, I am particularly pleased to report remarkable progress in the introduction of new enablers in the theatre. Four helicopters from the Republic of Burundi shall be deployed to Somalia in the coming days. That will certainly augment the operational support of ATMIS to Somali security forces; a significant step towards achieving an orderly and smooth transition. Operational and military successes, while significant, are not enough to degrade and ultimately defeat Al-Shabab.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“In addition, ATMIS and key partners have also registered achievements in the implementation of key mandated tasks. Key in that regard has been the successful completion of the joint technical assessment and the submission of a report to the Council for consideration in accordance with resolution 2687 (2023). As part of efforts to continue the agreed drawdown, the joint tripartite committee, consisting of ATMIS, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and the Federal Government of Somalia, completed the drawdown of 2,000 ATMIS troops in June and began activities for the phase 2 drawdown, which saw the ATMIS Bio Cadale forward operating base (FOB) transferred to the Somali security forces on 17 September.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Leading that effort has been President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. His long presence on the front lines in Galmudug has offered inspiration to the Somali security forces-led and -owned offensive. In parallel, ATMIS has continued to support the Federal Government of Somalia-led offensive against Al-Shabaab. In that regard, ATMIS launched shaping and clearance operations in all the sectors, provided artillery support in Mahas and undertook the historic inter-sector operation in Califoldheere Forest. That dislodged Al-Shabab from its defensive positions and enabled Somali security forces to achieve considerable operational successes. As offensives against Al-Shabaab progress, ATMIS intends to undertake similar inter-sector operations in support of the Federal Government of Somalia’s offensive where necessary.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Despite Puntland’s absence in the NCC, I am encouraged with its expressed intention to engage in direct talks with the Federal Government of Somalia. That signals renewed willingness to re-engage, and I look forward to Puntland’s return to the NCC, which remains a crucial mechanism for building consensus and advancing national priorities. Turning to the security situation, we continue to assess that Al-Shabaab remains the main threat to Somalia and, presently, the region. In the past three months, while we have seen Al-Shabaab prove its resilience across some sectors of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), we do not assess that to be a resurgence of Al-Shabaab. In response to Al-Shabaab’s resilience, we have continued to see the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government in the fight against Al-Shabaab.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Since my most recent briefing in June (see S/PV.9356), despite the continued challenges facing Somalia, we have witnessed commendable progress on some of Somalia’s immediate and outstanding issues. Those have predominantly focused on maintaining consensus-building and dialogue among Somalia’s leaders and the ongoing offensive against Al-Shabaab. I am pleased to report that the National Consultative Council (NCC) continues to play a leading role in fostering unity between the Federal Government and its federal member states. In August, the NCC agreed to accelerate the Federal Government’s offensive against Al-Shabaab and to prioritize stabilization and reconciliation in the newly recovered areas. That is ongoing and deserves our collective support.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“On 12 October, I hosted a briefing session with diplomatic partners in Mogadishu to take stock of the progress achieved so far in the transition process and to determine the required support for a successful and orderly transition. It was apparent that continued partnership and collaboration between the African Union, the United Nations and other key partners remain vital in delivering our collective support to Somalia. Today’s Council meeting is therefore timely and urgent, as Somalia remains united under the stellar leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in the country’s effort to deliver lasting peace, security and stability. I strongly believe that our continued interaction will allow us to afford Somalia the urgent concerted support it needs in that regard.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Mr. Souef: I thank the members of the Security Council for the opportunity to brief them on the situation in Somalia. Let me start by congratulating the Government of Brazil on its assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. I am pleased to be joined by Ambassador Catriona Laing, the Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM). Before I begin, allow me to salute once again the dedication and bravery of the Somali security forces and the African Union troops and police personnel and to pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of peace and security in Somalia. Prior to my trip to New York, I undertook extensive engagements with all partners, including the Federal Government of Somalia, on the transition.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“I am convinced that Somalia and the Somali people can always rely on the generosity and support of the Security Council, along with the entire international community, to build a better present and future.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“I believe we have a chance to improve on past mandates by aligning with the Government’s security priorities. We must support the leadership of the Somali security forces in holding liberated areas and taking over forward operating bases. Those forces require resources to fight Al-Shabaab and stabilize newly liberated areas. That calls for the lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia. (spoke in Arabic) Somalia needs for all its partners and friends to make the dream of peace, stability and security a sustained reality. I therefore commend the determination of the Somali Government and its political will to mobilize all active efforts to guarantee that the transitional process is a complete success and that a new chapter in Somalia’s future will be opened.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“We must also reach consensus on what exactly Somalia should achieve in the next 18 months to ensure that the ATMIS transition is successful. Another issue that needs our attention is tackling the effects of climate change. I am particularly worried about the alarming rate of flooding and drought. As recently highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2023/443), they have led to the displacement of approximately 1.4 million Somalis, with women and children being those most affected. In previous years, ATMIS has offered some support to displaced persons, particularly those in its area of operations. With the drawdown, Somalia will need additional support, particularly in finding durable solutions. Let me conclude with some remarks on the upcoming mandate renewal.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“As a result, the June drawdown has been advancing, with the support of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia, and will meet its deadline of 30 June. With the completion of phase 1, particularly the drawdown next week, ATMIS can create quick reaction forces and mobile forces. We also anticipate the deployment of key enablers, such as attack and utility helicopters and long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and counter-improvised explosive device capabilities. That will enhance the Mission’s operational capability, thereby enabling it to better respond to the operational requirements of the Somali security forces on the battlefield. In the next 18 months, we must collectively agree on the role ATMIS should continue to play as it begins to draw down and finally exit Somalia.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“Turning to a key aspect of the security transition, I can report to the Council that the drawdown of 2,000 ATMIS troops, in accordance with resolutions 2628 (2022) and 2670 (2022), is now being implemented. Marka Ayub was handed over on 18 June and Xaaji Cali on 20 June, while Mirtquo will be handed over on 23 June; Albao on 23 June; Cadale on 27 June; Aljazeera 1 on 28 June and Gherille on 30 June. I also welcome the strong partnership between Somalia and ATMIS in developing the Mogadishu document for the June drawdown of ATMIS troops. That joint position was accepted at the Summit of the Troop-Contributing Countries to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia and the Federal Republic of Somalia, held in Kampala, following comprehensive deliberations.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“Let me take this opportunity to update the Council on ATMIS efforts to implement the security transition. We now have a new leadership in place across the Mission’s three components. As mentioned earlier, we have successfully partnered and supported the offensive led by the Somali security forces. In April, we submitted the security benchmarks to the Council, highlighting our effective collaboration with the Federal Government. I am pleased to report that, with steady progress in the Federal Government’s force-generation programme, ATMIS uniformed personnel have increased their mentoring activities for the Somali National Army and the Somali Police Force. To continue that activity, we appeal to ATMIS donors to continue supporting our police efforts in training the Somali Police Force.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“Since the incident, ATMIS, in joint operations with the Somali security forces, has recaptured the Bulo Mareer forward operating base. The next phase of operations against Al-Shabaab will be significant, as Al-Shabaab attempts to strengthen its weakened command-and-control structure. I welcome the Federal Government’s decision to extend that campaign to involve the Frontline States, namely Djibouti, Ethiopia and Kenya. The operation, while military in objective, will have clear stabilization lines of efforts to ensure that our existing military gains can be translated into a strategic success. Currently, ATMIS and the Federal Government are in regular consultation to ensure that proper coordination exists regarding the Frontline States’ participation in the upcoming offensive.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“That outcome also benefited from ongoing ATMIS advisory support on the importance of compliance with international humanitarian law, human rights law and the United Nations Human Rights Due Diligence Policy with respect to United Nations support to non-United Nations security forces and the protection of civilians. It is clear that the offensive led by the Somali security forces, with support from ATMIS and international partners, has put Al-Shabaab under operational pressure. However, at ATMIS, we are mindful that our campaign against Al-Shabaab is a long-term one, requiring a holistic approach. There will be days of great success, and there will be periods of setbacks. On 26 May, Al-Shabaab attacked the ATMIS Bulo Mareer forward operating base, resulting in several troops being killed or injured.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“It will require a broad national consensus that must include representatives of political institutions, political figures, traditional elders, civil society organizations, and women and youth representatives, including from Puntland. Turning to the security situation, in our ongoing assessment, security remains relatively stable but fluid across all our sectors. With Al-Shabaab as the main threat to Somalia and, presently, the region, there have been important successes in efforts to degrade the terrorist group. Thanks to the leadership of the Somali security forces during the current offensive, Al-Shabaab has been dislodged from more than 70 locations across Somalia.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“Since the Government’s formation last August, I have been impressed by the collaborative working relationship between the executive and legislative branches. Both branches are committed to ensuring that Somalia is governed under the protection of the law. In that context, I applaud the signing into law of several bills. Encouraging steps have also been taken to signal that completion of the constitutional review process will be finalized during the Federal Government’s current term. I welcome the recent announcement by the constitutionally mandated bodies to complete the constitutional review process in 18 months. The successful completion of that task will significantly impact Somalia’s future.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“In December 2022, the NCC agreed on a federal judicial model, a strategic milestone towards the establishment of an independent federal judicial system in Somalia. In March, we saw a landmark agreement on the national security architecture, and in May, the NCC agreed on returning Somalia to one-person, one-vote elections. With the national security architecture agreement, we look forward to more work on cascading the agreement to the federal member state level and developing a sustainability and affordability plan. And with Somalia’s efforts aimed at holding universal elections, the African Union will continue to offer its expert support as we collectively work towards a more inclusive society in Somalia.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“Somalis came together to commemorate the occasion and renew the call for peace, stability and prosperity. As we reflect on the past year, it is clear that the stability ushered in last May has delivered great dividends and, in many instances, exceeded expectations. The progress made thus far is also a testament to the resilience and determination of the Somali people. Since my briefing to the Security Council in February (see S/PV.9267), Somalia has continued to focus on building consensus on critical issues that will hopefully lead to a transformative change in the country. I am pleased to note that the vehicle for advancing change remains the National Consultative Council (NCC).”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“On behalf of the African Union, I would like to recognize his stellar leadership in steering Somalia towards lasting peace and security. I commend ATMIS, the Federal Government of Somalia and international partners for their good collaboration in the fight against terrorism and in favour of peace, reconciliation and stability in Somalia. Speaking before me this morning was Ambassador Catriona Laing, the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia. Our joint presence in this Chamber is a reminder of the unique partnership that exists between the African Union and the United Nations. On 23 May, Somalia marked an important milestone in celebrating the first anniversary of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s return to office.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“I would like to thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to address the Security Council today and to share with you my analysis of the main political and security developments in Somalia in recent months, in the run- up to the renewal of the mandate of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which expires in a few days’ time. Allow me, first of all, to pay solemn tribute to all those soldiers who have lost their lives in the line of duty in Somalia. The contribution they have made to the service of peace in the country by sacrificing their lives will never be forgotten. (spoke in English) I am also honoured to speak today alongside His Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.”
2023-06-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9356 (2023) · source
“In conclusion, I would once again like to express my appreciation for the opportunity to brief the Council and renew the African Union’s commitment to achieving peace, stability and development for Somalia and its people, in line with the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“As the Council is aware, I took over the leadership of ATMIS in November 2022, with extensive experience in peace support operations, both with the United Nations and the African Union, and I am proud to be able to work with a team of truly dedicated and talented people who do not take for granted the opportunity to help rebuild Somalia. Under my leadership, ATMIS shall remain a reliable partner and a dependable ally. I therefore renew my commitment to the timely and effective implementation of the mandated tasks as assigned by the Council. To that end, ATMIS will continue to require a strong civilian component with a clear sense of purpose. With the support of the African Union Commission, I plan to begin the recruitment of national staff to enhance the effectiveness of ATMIS.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“That delegation met with the Government and humanitarian partners, visited internally displaced persons camps in Mogadishu and Baidoa and extended a solidarity gesture to the Federal Government of Somalia in support of the humanitarian drought response. ATMIS also facilitated the delivery of humanitarian supplies, including through the provision of escort and security to the World Food Programme to deliver 142 metric tons of assorted food commodities in hard-to-reach areas in Hirshabelle and South-West states in 2023.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“The Security Council meeting to be held next month under the presidency of the Government of Mozambique to discuss the security transition in Somalia could institute a breakthrough moment on funding and provide the Council, the African Union and the key partners an opportunity to address ATMIS’s outstanding funding requirements. Somalia continues to experience an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. In response to that, and as part of the wider support provided by international partners, the African Union Permanent Representative Sub-Committee on Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons visited Somalia in December 2022 to show solidarity with Somalia and assess the humanitarian situation.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“Regrettably, resolution 2670 (2022) does not provide the funding modalities required to support the six-month extension, and key partners, including the European Union, have indicated no new funding. I remain deeply concerned by the shortfall in the funding available for ATMIS and the Somali security forces. With no resolution on who and what mechanism will fund the current drawdown delay, there is an urgency to address the funding issue of ATMIS. Moreover, we believe that issue must be addressed within the broader context of the funding for African Union peace support operations. In that regard, I welcome the Secretary- General’s most recent call to the Security Council at the most recent African Union summit, stating that African Union missions must be afforded access to assessed contributions.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“Regarding the initial drawdown of 2,000 ATMIS troops, ATMIS has been looking at various options based on the direction provided by the African Union Commission. For a successful sector-by-sector approach, there is a need to undertake more detailed planning with the Federal Government to understand where they would want ATMIS to continue to hold and where the Federal Government would be willing to either take over or accept the risk of some ATMIS troop drawdowns across the sectors. As the Council will recall, resolution 2670 (2022) agreed to the Federal Government’s request to delay the drawdown of 2,000 ATMIS troops to June of this year. In doing so, it was also anticipated that ATMIS partners would financially support a delay of the drawdown.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“In the interim, ATMIS remains committed to continue providing international humanitarian and human rights law training of trainers to Somali security forces and to supporting efforts to advance the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) on women and peace and security. Turning to the adjustment of the timeline of phase one, we believe that this extension should provide the Federal Government of Somalia and ATMIS the space to complete important mandated tasks. As we have stated, there has been uneven progress, and there remains a need for further consultations on two critical issues: the first is the strategic sector-by-sector approach to the drawdown and the second is the funding of the six- month delay.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“Those brave young men and women must be supported with the equipment necessary to fight Al-Shabaab, the appropriate firepower and adequate ammunition supplies. That will only be possible when the Council once again takes into account the progress already made by Somalia in meeting the sanctions benchmarks effectively and in a timely manner as a pathway to lifting the arms embargo. Similarly, with Somalia expected to generate 15,000 forces, there is now an immediate need to increase the level of the current UNSOS support package to the Somali security forces beyond the mandated 13,900 forces.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“It will require the Council to consider the encouraging results of Somalia’s pace of force generation. With Somalia on track to meet its target of 15,000 newly trained forces this year, I welcome the recent return of 3,500 Eritrean-trained Somali National Army (SNA) troops, some of whom have already been deployed to the frontlines, as well as the ongoing training of SNA troops in Egypt, Ethiopia, Turkey and Uganda. On 6 February, Somalia’s Cabinet Minsters approved the agreement between the Federal Government of Somalia and the United Arab Emirates on military and security cooperation and counter-terrorism. With such a commitment, ATMIS is confident that Somalia is on track to assume security responsibility from ATMIS by December 2024.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“For that reason, I am grateful for the support of ATMIS troop-contributing countries (TCCs), particularly through their recent commitment to the Somalia Operations Coordination Committee to do more to support to the ongoing offensive. ATMIS TCCs have already committed to deploying critical force enablers, such as attack and utility helicopters, and are now seeking robust long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. When it is feasible for Somali security forces to begin taking over agreed forward operating bases, ATMIS TCCs will create quick reaction or mobile forces at a faster pace. That needs to be encouraged, and more support is needed to sustain the current success of the Somali security forces-led offensive.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“To date and beyond in our joint kinetic operations, ATMIS involvement in the ongoing offensive has included, first, using ATMIS helicopters to provide close air support; secondly, the provision of casualty evacuation and medical evacuation of Somali security forces troops from the battlefield; thirdly, the provision of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; fourthly, the provision of indirect fire support; and fifthly, the provision of combat service support, such as ammunition, water, drugs and field accommodation, and the provision of advisory support on international humanitarian law and issues related to the protection of civilians, to mention but a few. I want to be clear: the African Union’s support to Somalia, as I mentioned, will remain unwavering.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“We have also deployed to the Bariire forward operating base as part of an operational agreement with the Federal Government and recently collocated with the Somali security forces at the Xawaadle bridge forward operating base. Alongside our brave brothers and sisters in the Somali security forces, we have contributed to the ongoing offensive to degrade Al-Shabaab in line with the agreed joint Federal Government of Somalia-ATMIS concept of operations of 2022.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“I would like to take this opportunity to update the Council on the implementation of key aspects of resolutions 2628 (2022) and 2670 (2022). Despite uneven progress, I am pleased to report that key aspects of the mandated tasks are receiving the urgent focus and commitment they require. At ATMIS we have submitted a detailed and realistic reconfiguration plan that is still under review by the Federal Government. Recently, working with the Federal Government and with support from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia, we handed over the Maslah forward operating base as part of meeting the emerging demands of force generation.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“While Al-Shabaab’s tactics, techniques and procedures remained mainly unchanged during this reporting period, our threat picture suggests that it is trying to change some of its tactics. A key concern remains its use of commercial drones, which are likely to attain an armed capability in the future, a worrisome trend that we have observed in other terrorist theatres. Beyond Somalia, we are also concerned by Al-Shabaab’s transnational threat to Somalia’s immediate neighbours. However, I am equally encouraged by recent regional security engagements aimed at addressing that threat with a united approach. In that regard, according to our assessment, the recent summit convened by Somalia of the Frontline States, including Djibouti, Ethiopia and Kenya, will enhance the security framework that ATMIS serves in Somalia.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“It is important to note that Al-Shabaab is now being disrupted, degraded and defeated thanks to the security forces’ courageous actions and gallant sacrifices. Recent Al-Shabaab losses of several areas in Hirshabelle and Galmudug — including Middle Shabelle, Hiraan and towns in Mudug, such as the port of Xarardheere — all represent strategic and operational gains for the Federal Government. Despite the current and positive security momentum moving swiftly across Somalia, in the ATMIS area of responsibility we are mindful that Al-Shabaab still has the capability to carry out decisive operations, including complex attacks using improvised explosive devices both from suicide vehicles and carried by people, ambushes, kidnapping, assassinations and indirect fire attacks.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“That positive message again illustrates the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering on its laudable work plan — in this case, a key priority milestone for its economic pillar. At the African Union, as we celebrate 2023 as the Year of the African Continental Free Trade Area, we are proud that Somalia continues to place the importance of job creation, poverty reduction, improved welfare and sustainable development at the heart of its future. Despite Somalia’s security challenges, I am pleased to be able to say that Al-Shabaab is now under immense operational pressure and losing vital terrain. It is failing to maintain its hold on its centre of gravity, which is local community support, something that we continue to witness as local communities increasingly join the offensive led and owned by the Somali security forces.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“In that context, I welcome the efforts of Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, whose Cabinet approved more than 14 bills within a short period that have now been sent to Parliament. Many of them will ultimately help to create regional and international confidence and attract foreign investment, enabling Somalia to realize its great potential. Somalia’s bid to join the East African Community and the recent visit of the East African verification team to Somalia are good indicators of the prosperity that awaits Somalia in the coming years. I am particularly pleased that during the forty- second ordinary session of the Executive Council of the African Union, Somalia signalled its intention, as a next step to its imminent admission to the East African Community, to become a State party to the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“Noting Puntland’s stated position on its relationship with the Federal Government, I am optimistic that Somali leaders can reach a political agreement on key outstanding issues within the framework of the National Consultative Council. I am also encouraged that Puntland has signalled a willingness to continue pursuing a dialogue with the Federal Government and I look forward to its participation in the upcoming meeting of the National Consultative Council. Somalia has been defined by its insecurity for decades. However, I am pleased to report today that the Federal Government is not only poised for lasting peace by leading on silencing the guns in Somalia, but is also taking steps to bring about prosperity for its citizens.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“I remain encouraged that Somali leaders continue to pursue dialogue through the National Consultative Council to sustain Somalia’s political stability. Since May 2022 we have witnessed continued and regular meetings of the National Consultative Council. The National Consultative Council is now helping to advance Somalia’s national priorities, including security and key areas of peacebuilding and State-building. The National Consultative Council met recently in December, bringing together the Federal Government and the federal member states, except for Puntland, to agree on key outstanding issues of federalism and democratization.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“In response, Somaliland called for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution of the conflict. International partners, including ATMIS, firmly condemned the continuing violence and reports of the mobilization of armed groups, and further urged all the parties to adhere to the ceasefire, exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue to establish a path to a peaceful resolution. Earlier this month, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, together with the Speaker of the House of the People, successfully led a two-phase reconciliation process in South-West state, which concluded with an agreement among its stakeholders. With the dispute now resolved, I applaud the determination of all stakeholders to support the Federal Government’s plans to open a new front against Al-Shabaab soon.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“To sustain and further reinforce the momentum of inclusive politics, we have repeatedly witnessed the President visit front-line positions across Somalia, lending his personal support to ongoing reconciliation processes. The result of those visits has been consensus- building among local communities in support of Somalia’s ongoing offensive against Al-Shabaab. Specifically, the President’s visit to the Middle Shabelle region in November resulted in a cessation of hostilities between two local communities that have since played a central role in the Federal Government’s removal of Al-Shabaab from the region. Similarly, the President called for a cessation of hostilities and communicated the Federal Government’s readiness to facilitate dialogue and a resolution of the conflict between Somaliland forces and local communities in Laascaanood.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source
“The African Union’s dedication to supporting Somalia is solid and enduring and will extend beyond the life span of ATMIS, which ends on 31 December 2024. That is our aspiration to ensure Somalia forms part of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa by the year 2063. Since the most recent briefing by ATMIS in September 2022 (see S/PV.9125), Somalia has continued to register significant progress on its key national priorities, particularly those outlined in the Federal Government’s six-pillar work plan. As noted earlier, leading those efforts has been President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who I am pleased to report has taken decisive steps, mainly to accelerate inclusive politics and dialogue as a means of advancing the country’s priorities.”
2023-02-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9267 (2023) · source