Somalia: EU extends training mission
The Council has extended the EU training mission in Somalia (EUTM Somalia) until 31 December 2016.
Since 2010 the mission has been providing basic, leadership and specialised military training and advice on a Somali-owned military training system. EUTM Somalia has also contributed by providing strategic advice to the Somali Ministry of Defence and National Armed Forces on security sector development, including on personnel management, strategic planning and defence-related laws.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini i said: "The EU training mission has already made a real difference in Somalia by training around 5000 Somali troops. It will gradually shift towards mentoring Somali trainers, enabling the Somali National Army to progressively take over their own training. This will contribute to supporting Somalia's efforts to bring security and stability to the country."
During the renewed mandate, the mission's advisory pillar will further be strengthened. EUTM's efforts have contributed to the development of civilian control over the armed forces and to the management of the Ministry of Defence, as well as to the preparation of a Defence Plan within the overall context of public service. The mission's move from Uganda to Mogadishu in early 2014 greatly facilitated this work.
The EUTM Somalia is part of the EU's comprehensive approach to Somalia, which comprises diplomatic efforts, development support, humanitarian aid as well as security engagement. It includes two complementary missions under the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy: EUNAVFOR Operation ATALANTA contributing to fighting piracy off the Somali coast and EUCAP Nestor for maritime security capacity development in the Horn of Africa and the Western Indian Ocean.
EUTM Somalia was launched in December 2010 and has been based in Mogadishu since 2014. Brigadier General Antonio Maggi, from Italy, has been appointed Mission Commander as of 8 March 2015, heading a team of 125 staff.