Delivered by: Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh, Ambassador and Permanent Representative

Thank you, Mr. President.

I would like to begin by thanking China for its stewardship as President of the Security Council for the month of November. In a month that proved to be exceptionally challenging, China helped steer our discussions on critical issues with wisdom and skill. I also wish to congratulate Ecuador and wish them all the success as they assume the presidency of the Council for December.

Turning to today’s adoptions, I would like to first express our appreciation to the United Kingdom for their creative approach as penholder, and we believe that the work that his been done here will positively impact the future of Somalia. I also thank Council members for their constructive engagement throughout the negotiations of what is this Council’s longest ever UN sanctions regime. The United Arab Emirates welcomes today’s resolution and fully supports the lifting of the arms embargo on the Federal Government of Somalia.

This resolution marks the culmination of a partnership between the Council and the government of Somalia.  And it enables this Council to respond to the calls made by the government to review the sanctions regime, which were also strongly supported by the African Union. Today’s resolution sets a precedent on the way in which sanctions regimes can be adjusted according to developments on the ground. 

The UAE believes in the importance of sending a strong message that Somalia’s plight matters and that the Council stands with the Somali people.

While today’s resolution is big step, it is just a first step, and  the threat of Al Shabaab’s terrorist activities still hang over Somali civilians. The immense challenges that the country faces today cannot be solved solely through military means. In addition to the vision so clearly articulated by President Hassan Sheikh Mahmud in this Council last June, it is vital to continue multilateral engagement and support for Somalia from the international community. As the country continues to make strides towards lasting stability, we must look to consolidate peace gains.

There is still a distance to go. We encourage the broader UN system, Somalia’s partners and the international community at large, to continue their efforts in assisting the country in the creation of conditions conducive to economic recovery, growth and stability.

The UAE remains steadfast in its support for Somalia and its people, and we will continue to work alongside them, and their partners, in support of a peaceful and prosperous future.

Thank you.