PSC/PR/2 (CV) Rev.1 Page 17 (vii) While efforts are underway on the political and security aspects, humanitarian assistance to affected populations in Somalia should be stepped up. In this respect, building trust between the TFG and the humanitarian community, facilitating access to needy populations and improving security are key. The AU, in spite of its limitations, has a role to play both in terms of advocacy and mobilizing assistance from the continent and the larger international community. (viii) As Council has repeatedly emphasized, the long-term stabilization and reconstruction of Somalia requires resources and expertise that are far beyond the current capacities of the AU. Hence, the need for the United Nations Security Council, in line with its primary responsibility in the maintenance of international peace and security, to urgently authorize the deployment of a UN operation that would take over from AMISOM. Council may wish to renew its call to the United Nations to that effect, while more sustained efforts should be made to mobilize the support needed within the international community. 57. It is my earnest hope that the present meeting of Council will undertake a thorough and objective assessment of the situation in Somalia and the efforts made so far, with a view to agreeing on a focused and determined course of action on the basis of which the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, at its forthcoming session at the end of this month, could generate further political will and resolve to act. Somalia is a test case of our determination to rid our continent of the scourge of conflicts and give concrete meaning to our stated commitment to assist the Somali people. It is also a test of the commitment of the United Nations to fully assume its primary responsibility in the maintenance of international peace and security. 58. More than ever before, swift and collective action is needed not only because of the unfolding humanitarian crisis and the suffering inflicted on the Somali people, but also in view of the security implications of the current situation. Failure to effectively address the crisis in Somalia will leave a legacy of unfulfilled promises towards the Somali people, damage the credibility of the international community, as well as further undermine the prospects of peace in the country and compound efforts to promote regional stability.