UK pledges military personnel to support peace and stability in Somalia
UK Prime Minister David Cameron pledged additional assistance to the UN to reinforce progress made on the path to stability in Somalia.
At the recent UN General Assembly meeting, UK Prime Minister David Cameron pledged additional assistance to the UN to reinforce progress made on the path to stability in Somalia. This commitment is part of the UK’s enduring support to UN peace operations globally.
Commenting on the offer of assistance, the Prime Minister said;
Our armed forces have a long history of delivering security and stability to some of the most difficult environments in the world, and I am proud to offer British support and expertise to Somalia.
The UK contribution will be determined by the UN’s needs on the ground; where we can add most value; and where it will have greatest impact. This support will enhance the broader international effort in countering terrorism and violent extremism – critical for political progress and stability in Somalia.
UK Ambassador to Somalia, Harriet Mathews, reaffirmed the ongoing commitment to help build the foundations of security in Somalia, vital to the future peace and prosperity of the country”.
Through the deployment of UK military logistical, engineering and training expertise, we anticipate that UK personnel will provide essential core support and advice to the UN Support Office to AMISOM (UNSOA), which provides essential support to AMISOM and Somali National Army troops. Our offer will not include combat troops.
The UK is committed to work in partnership with Somalia at this critical time. With progress made on Regional Administrations and preparations underway for elections in 2016, it is vital that the gains made so far become irreversible. This will require continued progress on developing accountable and inclusive institutions that deliver real change for the Somali people.