Security Council calls on Somali political leaders to return to inclusive negotiations.

Deeply concerned about the absence of any credible progress towards national reconciliation in Somalia, the Security Council on 24 January called on all Somali political leaders and parties to return to an inclusive process of consultation and negotiation, leading to the establishment of a broad-based national government.

Through a statement read out by Council President Sir John Weston of the United Kingdom, it urged the leaders of Somali factions to reject violence and place the interests of the country and its people above their personal differences and political ambitions. While expressing appreciation for the efforts of various regional organizations and neighbouring States in promoting dialogue, the Council reaffirmed that the people of Somalia bore ultimate responsibility for achieving national reconciliation and restoring peace.

The Council condemned the harassment, beatings, abduction and killings of personnel of international humanitarian organizations, and underlined the responsibility of all Somali parties to ensure the security of such personnel.

Considering the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance to be crucial to overall security and stability in Somalia, the Council called on the Somali parties and factions to open unconditionally the main seaport in Mogadishu and other transportation facilities. It reminded all States of their obligation to implement fully the military embargo against Somalia and called on them to refrain from actions which might exacerbate the situation.

The Council also supported the Secretary-General's intention to maintain the UN Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS) and looked forward to its return to the country as soon as circumstances permitted. (UNPOS is currently based in Nairobi.)

Report of the Secretary-General

In his 19 January report (S/1996/42), the Secretary-General suggested that the Council "might wish to reiterate its call on all Somali parties, especially those who have of late adopted a unilateral approach, to return to an inclusive process of consultation and negotiation". He stated his intention of maintaining UNPOS for the time being. That office would continue its contacts with all concerned Somali parties, while coordinating its activities with interested Governments and regional organizations.

The Secretary-General also urged the international community to respond generously to calls for assistance by the humanitarian agencies, while stressing the responsibility of all...