Somalia's security plan endorsed by international partners

Somalia welcomed the endorsement and support of its Security Sector Development Plan, launched by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and later backed by international partners at a conference in New York on Tuesday.

The six-year security plan emphasizes Somalia's commitment to sovereignty and global peace, a fundamental aspect in constructing a resilient, self-reliant security framework.

"The security plan is the government's vision of assuming full ownership and responsibility for its security sector after years of turmoil. It is also a plan for achieving Somalia's overall political stability," the government said in a release from Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

The plan gained endorsement at a conference jointly hosted by the African Union, the United Nations, the European Union, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, Britain and the United States.

"The Federal Government of Somalia welcomes the international partner's pledge to support its security, political and economic endeavors as it seeks to build a more stable, prosperous Somalia," the statement said.

The security plan outlines the establishment of capable, accountable, affordable and transparent security forces and institutions, aligned with Somalia's obligations under international law to ensure sustainable security measures.

During the conference, participants commended the Somali National Army and community forces for their progress against the al-Shabab terrorist group, leading to the reclaiming of key areas, liberation of new territories and weakening of the group's financial and military influence.

Participants also recognized the support from the African Union Mission to Somalia Troop and Police Contributing Countries, along with international partners.

"The participants acknowledged the initiation of efforts geared towards inclusive constitutional processes and elections, increased domestic revenue and Somalia's recent admission into the East African Community," the statement said.

Participants emphasized the need to maintain this positive momentum and reaffirmed their commitment to a stable, democratic, and prosperous Somalia.

The endorsement of the security plan follows the UN Security Council's unanimous vote to lift restrictions on weapons deliveries to Somalia and its security forces, marking 31 years since the initial embargo was imposed.

The Somali government said the vote is another testament to the international community's confidence in Somalia's ability to take full charge of its security forces and institutions.