HAMZA ABDI BARRE, Prime Minister of Somalia, said “in the spirit of unity and shared responsibility”, the international community must confront the persistent and escalating conflicts that cause immense human suffering and destabilize entire regions.  He urgently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians, and adherence to international humanitarian law in Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza.  Noting that regional threats directly challenge national sovereignty and stability, he said Somalia now faces a serious threat from Ethiopia’s recent actions, which flagrantly violate its territorial integrity.  “Ethiopia’s attempts to annex parts of Somalia under the guise of securing sea access are both unlawful and unnecessary,” he said, adding that Somali ports have always been accessible for Ethiopia’s legitimate commercial activities.  Mogadishu asserts its sovereign right to defend its territorial integrity and calls on Ethiopia to cease its provocations and adhere to international law.

“We urge the international community to stand with Somalia in condemning these violations and upholding the principles of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, which are the cornerstones of international peace and security,” he said.  Regional stability depends on mutual respect for these principles, and Ethiopia must be held accountable for actions that threaten to destabilize the Horn of Africa.  Turning to peacekeeping, he said Somalia’s experience as host of key missions such as African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) underscores the importance of sustainable funding.  Both missions have been critical in countering Al-Shabaab and supporting statebuilding.  As the Council discusses the 2025 security arrangements, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia is expected to take over with a focus on counterterrorism and capacity-building. “Its success depends on reliable funding,” he said.

On Security Council, he said it must reflect the voices and concerns of the world’s nations, particularly those in Africa, Asia and Latin America.  “We support the Ezulwini Consensus, which calls for a more representative and inclusive Council,” he said, adding it will enhance the Organization’s credibility and effectiveness.  The reform of international financial institutions is also crucial to build a fairer global economy that promotes inclusive growth and sustainable development.  “The existing international financial system is heavily skewed in favour of a few, perpetuating inequalities and restricting the ability of developing nations to thrive,” he said.  “We call for reforms that make these institutions more accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the world's poorest and most vulnerable.”

Turning to the country’s progress, he said “Somalia has come a long way on its journey toward stability and development.” Its successful completion of the debt relief process let the country reclaim its economic sovereignty and reintegrate into the global financial system.  Somalia’s accession into the East African Community marks a new era of regional integration, trade and cooperation.  “We have also made a historic stride in lifting the long-standing arms embargo, a step that will further enable us to safeguard our sovereignty and security,” he said.  Security is fundamental to development, and Somalia has made the fight against terrorism a priority with remarkable success.  In the past two years, its national security forces, alongside the country’s courageous citizens, have reclaimed more than two thirds of the territory once under the control of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, significantly diminishing their operational capabilities.  “As we look to the future, Somalia stands ready to play an active and responsible role in the global community,” he said.  “As an incoming member of the UN Council in 2025-2026, we are fully committed to working alongside all nations to confront the world’s most pressing challenges.”