US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres engaged in a critical dialogue on Friday, focusing on security issues in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen.
The call emphasized cooperative efforts to address mounting instability and ongoing humanitarian challenges.
Blinken highlighted the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission’s recent advances in Haiti, as outlined by the US Department of State.
He urged support for transitioning the MSS mission into a UN peacekeeping operation, as requested by Haiti’s government, to create sustainable security and support for Haitian citizens.
Haiti, suffering under a surge of gang violence, saw its challenges deepen following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.
This violence has spurred international concern and calls for a stronger UN role in restoring order.
The conversation also delved into funding options for Somalia’s African Union Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM), a critical effort against terrorist attacks from groups like al-Shabaab.
Both leaders recognized the need for continued resources and international support to stabilize Somalia.
Additionally, Blinken and Guterres discussed the situation in Yemen, where UN and humanitarian staff members are held by the Houthis.
They outlined steps to secure the release of all detainees, including UN, diplomatic, and NGO personnel.
Expressing appreciation for Guterres’ leadership, Blinken underscored the importance of unified efforts in confronting these global security challenges.