Permanent Mission of the Republic of Korea to the United Nations

Statement by H.E. Ambassador Sangjin Kim

Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea

Briefing on the situation in Somalia (TIPS)

New York, 29 December 2025 (PM)                              as delivered

Thank you, Mr. President.

At the outset, I would like to commend Slovenia for its effective stewardship of the Council during the month of December. I also thank ASG Khiari for his informative briefing provided today.

The Security Council’s adoption this month of two resolutions concerning Somalia—namely the extension of mandate of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM) and sanctions against Al-Shabaab—reflects the international community’s continued commitment to peace and security in Somalia.

However, recent diplomatic developments related to Somalia warrant close attention, as they carry broader implications for regional stability and for the principles that underpin our collective efforts.

In this context, we believe it is important to continue engaging with all relevant parties in a manner that respects sovereignty, supports dialogue, and contributes to practical cooperation in addressing shared challenges.

I would like to make three points.

First, the Republic of Korea reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Our respect for Somalia’s sovereignty necessarily entails full recognition of its internationally recognized borders, which remain essential to ensuring clarity, predictability, and stability in regional relations.

Accordingly, we support the authority of the Federal Government of Somalia as exercised within its internationally recognized borders and in accordance with Somali constitution.

Second, we recognize the value of efforts aimed at strengthening bilateral and regional relations, including initiatives that promote dialogue and confidence-building between Israel and its neighbors.

However, we believe that such efforts, in order to be constructive and sustainable, must be pursued in full respect of the sovereignty of the states concerned and in a way that supports, rather than undermines, ongoing dialogue among Somali stakeholders.

Third, we encourage relevant Somali stakeholders to actively engage in good-faith dialogue to address different views related to governance arrangements and the exercise of authority, including questions concerning territorial integrity and the respective roles of federal and regional institutions.

As reflected in recently adopted Security Council resolutions, all Somali parties share responsibility for strengthening cooperation and engaging in discussion for the benefit of all Somalis. Coordinated efforts remain essential to fostering mutual understanding, strengthening national cohesion, and advancing an inclusive political process that supports Somalia’s national priorities.

We also acknowledge the important role played by the UN and regional partners in supporting the peaceful resolution of disputes related to Somalia and promoting its peace and stability.

Mr. President,

As our term on the Security Council comes to an end, this may be our final intervention in this Chamber. Nevertheless, the Republic of Korea’s commitment to peace, stability, and security — in Somalia and beyond — remains unwavering. We will continue to support the work of the UN and its partners in advancing these shared objectives.

In this spirit, we extend our best wishes to the incoming members of the Security Council — Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia, and Liberia — as they assume their important responsibilities.

I thank you.  /END/