Resolution on African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)

[Thursday, 31 March 2022]

Explanation of Position

Thank you Madam President,

AMISOM has played an important role, in providing an enabling security environment in Somalia, including in containing Al-Shabaab, and terrorist attacks. This remains important not just for Somalia but for the wider Horn of Africa region. India commends and pays tribute to all AMISOM troop and police contributing countries for their sustained commitment and the sacrifices they have made.

2. India has been a steadfast supporter of AMISOM since its inception and regularly contributed to the Trust Fund. India had made a significant contribution to peacekeeping in Somalia through its significant involvement in UNOSOM-II during 1993-94. Twelve Indian soldiers laid down their lives for keeping the peace in Somalia.

3. The resolution adopted today has set in motion the process of phased handover of responsibilities to Somalia’s security forces by reconfiguring AMISOM into the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). This is in line with the proposal submitted to the Security Council on 7 March 2022 by the Secretary-General, and produced jointly with the African Union, in consultation with the FGS and other stakeholders.

4. The AU Transition Mission in Somalia has several onerous responsibilities, primarily to reduce the threat posed by terror group Al Shaabab. Al-Shabaab remains largely responsible for numerous civilian casualties and human rights violations, including attacks on women and children. During the transition, the Somali people need international community’s continued attention and support in dealing with a terrorist group like Al-Shabaab. A ‘zero tolerance’ approach to terrorism must guide our way forward.

5. However, with regard to climate change, we remain fundamentally opposed to the persistent attempts in the Security Council to link climate change to security. We have repeatedly mentioned that the UN Security Council is not the place to discuss climate change. By linking this with security, a great disservice is being done to the principles agreed in UNFCCC, as UNFCCC remains the primary intergovernmental forum to discuss all aspects related to climate change.

I thank you Madam President.