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Remarks by Ambassador Dai Bing at Security Council Briefing on Somalia

2021-08-12 04:56

Mr. President,

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Mr. Swan and Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mr. Madeira for their briefings. I also listened carefully to the statement of the civil society representative Ms. Gabale. I welcome Somali representative to today’s meeting.

Lately, the political situation has largely moved in a positive direction in Somalia. China welcomes the agreement reached by Somali parties on electoral arrangements and the official launch of the upper house elections. We hope that all parties will commit themselves to maintaining national stability and rebuilding peace, strengthen dialogue and consultation on advancing the electoral process, and hold elections as agreed and scheduled. UNSOM has played an important role in supporting peace and reconstruction of Somalia. China supports the renewal of its mandate and the continuation of its technical advice and support to Somalia for the smooth conduct of elections. China commends the efforts by Somalia and Kenya to improve bilateral relations and hopes that they will continue their contribution to the regional peace and stability.

Somalia’s security situation remains fraught with challenges. It is of concern that Al-Shabab continues to launch frequent attacks against innocent civilians, AMISOM and Somali security forces. China supports AMISOM in its continued coordination and collaboration with Somali security forces on joint counter-terrorism operations. We hope that the international community will lend strong support to the Somali government in security capacity building in line with the Somalia Transition Plan. China calls on donors to continue providing financial support for AMISOM to deliver on its mandate. The UN and the AU need to strengthen communication and coordination with Somalia to reach consensus on the future arrangements of AMISOM.

The current humanitarian situation in Somalia has further worsened, as compounded by factors including COVID-19, extreme weather and locust infestation. One fifth of its population face food and security issues. Humanitarian needs are rising. The UN humanitarian response plan is drastically underfunded. The international community should step up efforts to give full support to Somalia in fighting the pandemic and improving disaster response capacities, make available greater support in development aid and debt relief, and encourage Somalia to explore a development path that suits its national conditions and enhances its own development capacity.

China has always stood for the peace and reconstruction of Somalia. We have helped the country in building infrastructure and economic development capacity, and provided multiple batches of anti-pandemic supplies and vaccines. Last week, China held the first meeting of the International Forum on COVID-19 Vaccine Cooperation, and announced that China would provide 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to the world this year, and donate 100 million US dollars to COVAX. We stand ready to work with the international community to make positive contribution to lasting peace and sustainable development in Somalia.

Thank you, Mr. President.

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