By Horn Africa News
Hargeisa – The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), received today the British Ambassador to Somalia, Charles King, at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Somaliland and the United Kingdom.
During the meeting, President Irro expressed gratitude for the ambassador’s official visit and acknowledged the UK’s longstanding support for Somaliland. He emphasized that Somaliland is committed to deepening its cooperation with the UK, describing the relationship as historic, built on mutual trust and collaboration.
Mr. Irro briefed Ambassador King on key developments and reforms his administration has implemented in eastern Somaliland since taking office on December 12, 2024. These include the integration of civilian defense forces and their vehicles, improving military salaries, and resolving long-standing clan conflicts in Ceel Afweyn. He also highlighted efforts to enhance regional security and prepare for upcoming elections.
The president stressed that Somaliland is pursuing a peaceful approach to the security situation in Sool and Sanaag. He reiterated that his government has made multiple unconditional peace offers and established a Peace Committee aimed at resolving tensions through dialogue. He asserted that Somaliland does not believe that war will bring any lasting solution and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable peace and political stability.
In a strong statement, President Cirro accused the Federal Government of Somalia—specifically President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud—of instigating conflict in Sool and Sanaag as a distraction from internal governance challenges in Mogadishu. He insisted that Somaliland remains committed to maintaining peace and stability and will not stray from the path of dialogue and long-term solutions in the public interest.
For his part, Ambassador Charles King reaffirmed the UK’s appreciation for its historical relationship with Somaliland. He praised Somaliland’s security, political stability, commitment to democratic processes, and the successful integration of civilian forces.
Ambassador King highlighted Somaliland’s significant economic potential, especially through the Port of Berbera, which he described as crucial to regional economic growth. He emphasized the importance of encouraging private investment as a driver of economic development and commended Somaliland’s efforts to improve economic infrastructure, including in trade, port development, and public services.
He also stated that the UK government is ready to support Somaliland’s economic development and expand private sector investment opportunities.
In closing, Ambassador King expressed concern over the situation in Lasanod, warning that it could trigger renewed conflict. He urged all parties involved to avoid further violence that could undermine regional peace and progress.
According to the Somaliland Presidency, the meeting concluded with mutual understanding and a commitment to strengthening ongoing cooperation and building a fruitful partnership based on the shared interests of both peoples.
Meanwhile, in a new development, a self-declared autonomous administration was announced last night in Lasanod, separate from both Somaliland and Puntland. The new entity was named “Northern Somalia.” Somaliland has labeled the move a direct threat to its territorial integrity.
