MOGADISHU — The African Union’s Peace Support Operations Division has convened a high-level experts’ meeting to discuss the future of the African Union’s security and peace support role in Somalia.
The meeting, chaired by Major General Cheick Dembele, brought together representatives from the Federal Government of Somalia, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), troop- and police-contributing countries, the African Union Military Staff Committee, the A3 members of the UN Security Council and the United Nations.
Participants exchanged views on the future direction of the African Union mission in Somalia, taking into account the country’s security situation, state-building efforts and the ongoing transition plan to gradually transfer security responsibilities to Somali security forces.
The discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation between Somalia, the African Union and international partners to promote lasting peace, stability and continued efforts against terrorist groups.
The African Union said the meeting forms part of an ongoing strategic consultation process to guide decisions on its future engagement in Somalia while responding to the country’s evolving security needs.
The talks come as stakeholders continue assessing the future of AUSSOM and Somalia’s gradual assumption of full responsibility for national security with support from the African Union and the international community.
