We must work together to ensure a responsible and sustainable drawdown of UNSOM: UK statement at the UN Security Council

I will make four points on behalf of the UK.

First, we express our deepest condolences to the families of the 37 civilians killed in al-Shabaab's horrific attack on Mogadishu's Lido beach on the 2nd of August, and of all other civilians killed in Somalia in the recent months. We commend the continued efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to tackle al-Shabaab.

Second, we thank Somalia and the UN for their consultation on the future of the UNSOM mandate. As we look towards UNSOM's two-year transition, the UK is working with stakeholders to ensure a gradual, responsible and sustainable drawdown of the mission, including the progressive and phased transfer of the mission's tasks to the Federal Government of Somalia, the UN Country Team and other stakeholders.

It is essential that during the transition the mission has the resources and capabilities necessary for continued delivery on those areas critical to Somalia's needs. We thank the SRSG for the continued, constructive execution of his responsibilities.

And as we move into the transition period, the role of SRSG remains vital. We also look forward to working closely with all Council members this month on the transitional mission's mandate.

Third, we note the upcoming Federal Member State elections. We echo the Secretary General's call for all stakeholders to work together to resolve differences on electoral modalities and timelines, and we are watching closely the outcomes of the National Consultative Council meeting this week.

I support Ms. Elman's comments on the importance of an approach inclusive of civil society, women and youth in Somalia's political and peacebuilding processes.

Fourth, we welcome the continued progress on the planning for the African Union-led successor mission to ATMIS. We underline the importance of the UN and AU consulting broadly, in line with resolution 2748, to ensure the overall mission design and financing options are viable and deliverable. We look forward to next week's interim update, and the detailed reporting on the 15th of November.

Finally President, I would also like to welcome Somalia and all incoming members as they begin observing Council proceedings this month. We look forward to working closely with Somalia from January on the full range of Security Council business.