Madam President,
France thanks the United Kingdom for its crucial role in the preparation of this text. She welcomes the adoption of this resolution, which establishes the creation of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, AUSSOM. This mission marks a new stage in supporting Somalia's efforts to fight against the Al-Shabab group, and ultimately ensure its own security. Somalia can count on France's support in this essential objective.
This resolution marks an important step by providing for the implementation of the first African peace operation according to the terms of resolution 2719. France has always been committed to this model. She is delighted that the Security Council has managed to define a hybrid and unprecedented framework for cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union. This demonstrates the ability of the Security Council to adapt its tools, in conjunction with the regional organizations concerned.
Madam President,
France would like to point out that AUSSOM must continue to rely on voluntary contributions from partners. It is important that the European Union, which has committed more than €2.6 billion to African Union missions in Somalia since 2007, is fully associated with the new mission. We want the European Union to remain engaged within the limits of its capabilities, and in addition to the support of the rest of the international community. Only a joint and coordinated response from all of Somalia's partners will make it possible to stem the terrorist threat. There are no traditional, or non-traditional, partners, only Somalia's partners for its security and sovereignty in the 21st century.
On this subject, as on all points on the Council's agenda, France is delighted to be able to benefit from Somalia's perspective within this Council, starting next week.
Thank you.
France
