First, I congratulate Somalia on its election to the UN Security Council for the term 2025 to 2026. Somalia's return to the Council after more than 50 years is a significant milestone. The UK looks forward to working closely with Somalia on the Council.
Second, the UK notes progress on Somalia's constitutional review with the completion of the first four chapters. We encourage increased consultation and collaboration with all stakeholders in Somalia to ensure an inclusive process on political and constitutional reform moving forward.
Third, we are at a critical moment in Somalia's security transition, as we reach the final stages of the ATMIS' drawdown. We welcome the African Union Communique on the joint strategic assessment for the post ATMIS security arrangements for an AU-led mission in Somalia. We also welcome the significant progress so far and urge the federal government of Somalia to continue its efforts on security sector reform. It is vital that security gains are not lost. Continued support from, and coordination with, international partners is critical, including the UN, AU, and troop contributing countries. We urge Somalia and the African Union to continue to work with the UN to progress the design of a follow-on mission.
Fourth, the UK welcomes consultations between the UN and Somalia on next steps, including agreement on the timeline and modalities for UNSOM's transition. President, we do not take the progress made in Somalia for granted. The UK remains committed to working with the Somali authorities, UN and Council members to ensure progress is sustained.
