Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has welcomed the UN Security Council’s decision to lift an arms embargo that has been in place for over three decades.
The embargo, imposed in 1992 to prevent the sale of weapons to warring factions, has hindered the country’s efforts to combat terrorism and maintain security.
In a statement, President Mohamud expressed his gratitude to the international community for supporting Somalia’s progress towards peace and stability.
He emphasized that the lifting of the embargo will enable the government to modernize its armed forces and effectively confront security threats, particularly from al Shabaab, an al Qaeda-linked extremist group.
The unanimous vote to lift the embargo came after years of diplomatic efforts by the Somali government. The decision was met with relief and optimism among Somalis, who hope that it will pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future.
Despite the lifting of the embargo, some concerns remain.
France, the only country to abstain from the vote, expressed concerns about the potential for weapons to fall into the wrong hands, particularly in light of ongoing territorial disputes between Somalia and its neighbors.
Despite these concerns, the lifting of the arms embargo represents a significant milestone in Somalia’s journey towards stability.
With access to modern weapons and equipment, the Somali government is better equipped to tackle security challenges and protect its citizens.
The international community must continue to support Somalia’s efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.
