New York, (MFA somalia) – The State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Ali Mohamed Omar, participated on Thursday in a high-level side event during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. The event, titled “A People Under Attack: Protecting Civilians, Local Leadership, and Humanitarian Workers in Sudan,” focused on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.In his remarks, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs expressed gratitude to the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Liberia for organizing the discussion. He highlighted the risks faced by humanitarian personnel and local aid networks and offered condolences to those who have lost their lives delivering essential assistance.

“The crisis in Sudan is among the gravest humanitarian emergencies worldwide, with nearly two-thirds of the population requiring urgent aid, twelve million displaced, and 8.7 million facing starvation. The spread of cholera adds to this catastrophe,” Ali Omar said, referencing last year’s tragedy in ZamZam as a clear example of the conflict’s human toll.

During the event, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for international action through the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2736 and the revitalization of the Jeddah Declaration to promote inclusive political dialogue. Drawing on Somalia’s own experiences with prolonged conflict, he called on the global community to prioritize ending the crisis and providing humanitarian assistance.

He reaffirmed Somalia’s support for Sudan, stressing the importance of preserving the country’s sovereignty and unity. “We urge UN member states to ensure unhindered access for humanitarian aid and work collectively to help Sudan emerge stronger, unified, and resilient,” the State Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said.