Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on Somalia

The Secretary-General strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly Al-Shabaab attack on an African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) base staffed by Burundian peacekeepers in Middle Shabelle, Somalia.

The Secretary-General expresses his heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed, as well as to the Government and to the people of Burundi. He wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

The Secretary-General pays tribute to all ATMIS troops and expresses his deep appreciation for their service and commitment to peace and security in Somalia.

The Secretary-General reiterates his appeal to the international community to provide all necessary support to ATMIS and to the Somali security forces in their fight against Al-Shabaab.