The UN Security Council agreed on Wednesday to extend a partial suspension of the arms embargo on Somalia for another eight months, allowing the government to buy light weapons to strengthen its security forces.

A resolution adopted by the council reiterated the need for all member states to implement their obligations of "preventing unauthorized deliveries of weapons and military equipment to Somalia and to prevent the direct or indirect import of charcoal from Somalia in violation of the relevant Security Council resolutions."

Last March, the Security Council partially lifted the 21-year- old arms embargo on Somalia for one year, allowing the government to import small arms and light weapons but not larger weapons and munitions, in an effort to strengthen its forces against the Al- Shabaab Islamic fighters.

In Wednesday's resolution, the council members condemned "flows of weapons and ammunition supplies to and through Somalia in violation of the arms embargo on Somalia, as well as the destabilizing accumulation and misuse of such weapons as a serious threat to peace and stability in the region."

Reaffirming its respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity of Somalia, the resolution said the situation in the country continues to constitute a threat to international peace and security.

It stated that until Oct. 25, 2014, the arms embargo "shall not apply to deliveries of weapons, ammunition or military equipment or the provision of advice, assistance or training, intended solely for the development of the Security Forces of the Federal Government of Somalia, to provide security for the Somali people."

The arms embargo on Somalia dates back to 1992, when the Security Council adopted a resolution cutting the flow of weapons to feuding warlords in reaction to the ongoing conflict and deteriorating humanitarian situation. Endite

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)