New York(Mogadishu24)-n a briefing to the UN Security Council on Thursday, United Nations Envoy to Somalia, James Swan, addressed key concerns over the conflict between Somalia and Ethiopia, humanitarian issues, and the ongoing climate crises affecting Somalia.

Swan urged both Ethiopia and Somalia to find a diplomatic solution following tensions sparked by a Memorandum of Understanding signed on January 1 between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

“I urge Ethiopia and Somalia to find a diplomatic solution that resolves this issue within the framework of international law,” Swan stated, commending mediation efforts by partners such as Türkiye.

The envoy also emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions in the Sool and Sanaag regions to allow for humanitarian access. Highlighting the humanitarian situation, Swan noted that while the number of those requiring aid in Somalia has decreased to 6.9 million in 2024, the country still faces significant needs due to climate shocks, poverty, and conflict.

Swan called for increased support to Somalia’s $1.6 billion Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, which is currently only 37% funded.

Swan underscored the necessity of building resilience to climate change to ensure the country’s stability and urged continued support from the international community for climate-smart interventions and access to the Green Climate Fund.