MOGADISHU (SD) – Somalia has officially requested the end of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) as it approaches its expiration in October 2024, indicating a new phase of cooperation between the country and the United Nations.

Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Moalin Fiqi, sent a letter to the UN Secretary-General informing him that upon review of “comprehensive consultations on strategic importance,” the government does not intend to seek the renewal to Resolution 2705 authorizing the establishment of UNSOM.

The Somali government described a “successful partnership” with UNSOM, expressing confidence that it is now appropriate to transition to the next phase of cooperation. Somalia is committed to engaging with the UN to support the country’s progress towards sustainable peace and development beyond the mandate of UNSOM.

The letter calls for swift action to finalize the necessary arrangements for the transition of UNSOM’s work beyond the planned October 2024 end date. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received the communication.

However, some regional analysts have warned that a premature withdrawal from UNSOM could jeopardize the fragile gains that have been made.