Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Norberto Moretti, on the situation in Somalia - June 22dnd, 2023

Madam President,

As other delegations, I warmly welcome President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

I thank Special Representative Laing, Special Representative El-Amine Souef and Executive Director McCain for their valuable briefings.

Madam President,

We acknowledge the work undertaken by the Federal Government of Somalia towards the advancement of key national priorities, including strengthening dialogue with Federal Member States. Political unity and effective cooperation in favor of the Somali people are critical for further state-building, peace and sustainable development.

We commend Somalia’s efforts to advance the implementation of its National Security Architecture in parallel with the ongoing phases of ATMIS drawdown. A proper security handover is a key challenge that the Security Council and all relevant parties must assist Somalia to overcome it in a sustained manner.

As the Secretary-General highlighted in his latest report, regional cooperation remains essential to addressing regional security concerns. We commends the efforts undertaken to establish the Frontline States Initiative.

We welcome the commitment shared by Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia to expand operations against Al-Shabaab, in full compliance with international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and fully coordinate actions to consolidate security gains.

Brazil reiterates its appreciation for the brave work undertaken by ATMIS personnel and the Somali security forces in support of peace and security in the country. While we commend their gains in the fight against Al-Shabaab, the increase in terrorist-related incidents is nothing but alarming, especially with growing use of improvised explosive devices.

In this regard, we recognize the work carried out by the UN Mine Action Service in delivering threat mitigation services in Somalia. And as other, and again, we condemn in the strongest terms the appalling attack on the ATMIS forward operating base that Ugandan troops staffed in Lower Shabelle. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims.

Madam President,

Brazil shares with other Council members serious concerns about violence in Laascaanood. We reiterate our full respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and call on all parties to reach a ceasefire agreement urgently. We support further efforts by UNSOM, within its mandate, to foster inclusive dialogue, promote peaceful dispute resolution and engage with all parties to the conflict.

Madam President,

We commend the vital work by the World Food Programme and the humanitarian agencies in Somalia. At the same time, as indicated by Executive Director, the humanitarian situation remains acute. A significant part of the population is on the brink of famine. And for many, life is a daily struggle simply to eat. 

Additional and flexible funding for food security is a critical measure for preventing conflict.We call on Somalia to redouble its efforts to strengthen governance, foster community reconciliation and provide essential services in areas deeply affected by food insecurity.

If coupled with increased humanitarian assistance, these resources will be critical to consolidate security gains.

In concluding, Brazil reiterates its continued support for Somalia and underscores the importance of fully implementing the mandates of ATMIS, UNSOM and UNSOS.

Thank you very much.