The African Union approves Somalia's candidacy for membership in the Security Council

The African Union approves Somalia's candidacy for membership in the Security Council

 The African Union has announced its support for Somalia as the only candidate from East Africa for one of the non-permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council for the period 2025-2026. This decision was taken by the Council of Foreign Ministers of the African Union at its forty-first ordinary session held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on 15 February 2024.

Acting Somali Foreign Minister, Ali Mohamed Omar (Balad), praised the AU’s support and described it as a “huge success” that will enhance Somalia’s reputation and influence in global affairs and critical decisions. “This is a historic moment for Somalia and recognition of our efforts to restore peace, stability and democracy in our country and region,” he said in a statement.

He added that Somalia will work closely with other member states of the African Union and the international community to promote the common interests and values ​​of Africa and the United Nations. Somalia last served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 1971-72, when it played a major role in mediating conflicts and promoting cooperation in Africa and beyond.