Explanation of Vote on Somalia Piracy Resolution
Statement
03 December 2021We welcome the adoption today of the resolution to renew the authorisation of international counter piracy measures in Somalia, and express our appreciation for the efforts of the United States as penholder.
Ireland strongly supports our continued cooperation and partnership with Somalia in the fight against piracy and armed robbery at sea. Ireland also supports collaboration with the Somalia authorities to tackle the underlying causes of piracy. As the Secretary General’s report reminds us, while there have been no piracy incidents over the past year, this is due to long-term collective efforts. The risks have not been eradicated.
While we welcome today’s adoption, Ireland regrets that the mandate was only renewed for three months. As an EU member, Ireland is concerned that such a short timeframe could threaten the continuation of the EU’s Operation Atalanta, which conducts a crucial counter-piracy naval operation in the region.
Ireland takes note of Somalia’s wish to amend the current coordination in the fight against piracy and looks forward, in this regard, to productive discussions with Somalia on ways to achieve our shared objectives.