Statement by H.E. Mr. Tsuneo Nishida
Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations
At the Meeting of the Security Council on the Situation in Somalia
23 December 2010

           Japan welcomes the adoption of resolution 1964.

           Paragraph 3 of resolution 1964 states that the Security Council notes the recommendations on Somalia by the African Union and that it underlines the intention to review the situation for future decisions on AMISOM beyond what we decided today. We commend Uganda and Burundi for their sacrifice for and contribution to Somalia through AMISOM and recognize the importance of supporting their activities.

           As a co-sponsor of this resolution, we sincerely hope that the Council will continue consultations on how to provide predictable support to AMISOM. We believe that such support will help AMISOM to enhance the security situation in Somalia, thereby paving the way for the TFG to advance the political process. We stand ready to remain involved in the future process.

           I thank you, Madame President.