ALBAWABA - Hassan Sheikh Mahamud, president of Somalia, stated Saturday during a parliamentary meeting that the UN Security Council's arms embargo on Somalia will be lifted next month.
"We had five national targets this year including liberating the country from al-Shabaab, removal of the arms embargo, admission to the East Africa Community (EAC), and debt relief, and the arms embargo will be lifted earlier next month," Mahmoud said.
He also assured lawmakers that his government is committed to achieving the five national targets that were set at the beginning of the year.
Mohamed Husein Gaas, director of the Raad Peace Research Institute in Mogadishu, told Anadolu agency: "The lifted UN arms embargo on Somalia brings significant benefits, including improved stability, heightened counterterrorism capabilities, and a more stable, peaceful Somalia which will be a favorable environment for rebuilding and humanitarian efforts in the country,".
According to experts, the lifting of the arms embargo and its impact will be more reputational than anything else.
"Additionally, a secure Somalia will become an attractive destination for foreign investment, driving economic development and infrastructure rebuilding. The government's strengthened security measures not only enhance legitimacy but also contribute to improved governance and the rule of law," Gaas added.
In June, the Somalian President urged the U.N. Security Council to lift an arms embargo on the nation, saying it no longer serves its purpose.
"I implore you distinguished delegates to support our call for the complete lifting of the arms embargo in Somalia. By doing so, you will empower us to assert our sovereignty, effectively combat terrorism, and build a peaceful and prosperous future for our nation" he said.
