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Written question asked by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Thursday, 1 February 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 15 February 2024. It was answered by Lord Benyon (Conservative) on Wednesday, 14 February 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Somalia: Politics and Government

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what is their assessment of the security situation in Somalia, including the progress of the government of Somalia’s offensive against Al-Shabaab; and whether they are working with the EU in support of the EU-Somalia Joint Operational Roadmap, adopted in May 2023.

Answer

The Federal Government of Somalia's campaign to tackle al-Shabaab (AS) has made significant progress in the past 18 months, though challenges in recent months have slowed that progress. Tackling al-Shabaab is a top UK counter-terrorism priority and we commend Somali Security Forces for their ongoing efforts. For enduring progress, the international community must support the Somali-led security sector to ensure liberated areas are stabilised.

In November 2023, we signed the UK-Somalia Strategic Partnership which sets out shared, long-term objectives including support for Somalia's security sector for long-term stability. To this end, the UK engages with key partners such the EU, including in areas covered by both the UK-Somalia Strategic Partnership and the EU-Somalia Joint Operational Roadmap.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2141
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Politics and government EU external relations Somalia
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk