NEW YORK – Somalia’s ambassador to the UN, Abukar Dahir Osman, gave a speech yesterday to the Security Council calling for the lifting of the arms embargo imposed on the country since 1992.
Abukar Baalle reported on the situation in SSC-Khatumo, which was part of the “Somalia Report” given by the UN envoy Katrina Ling to the Security Council, which has already condemned the bombing of Somaliland in Lasanood and the massacre of the people in that city.
The ambassador called for the removal of the long-standing arms embargo on Somalia, citing the change and development in the country, which has come about through the government’s efforts to ensure security.
He welcomed the recognition of the interim administration of SSC-Khatumo and urged the UN office in Somalia UNSOM and international friends to support this new administration in accordance with the policy of the Federal Government of Somalia.
Ambassador Abukar Baalle expressed hope for the joint efforts of the Somali government and friends of the international community to fight Al-Shabaab, which he said is a threat to the security of the country and the Horn of Africa region.
The arms embargo has prevented the government from buying heavy weapons to equip the Armed Forces, which are expected to take over from ATMIS in December 2024.
