To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with the Government of Somaliland on (a) security in that region and (b) the Somaliland's future sovereignty.
Answered on
29 November 2018
I discussed security with President Musa Bihi during my 7 October visit to Hargeisa. Somaliland has a crucial role in combatting the threat from terrorism in the region. The UK provides a range of assistance to Somaliland, including to enhance Somaliland's capability to disrupt terrorist threats, gather evidence and make arrests based on respect for human rights and the rule of law. The UK also supports Somaliland's efforts to contribute to security in the region through engagement with the police, judiciary and civil society.
We remain concerned about clashes earlier this year near the town of Tukareq, and we strongly encourage leaders on all sides to resolve disputes peacefully and engage with the mediation process led by the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
The UK does not recognise Somaliland's declaration of independence. Our long-standing position remains that it is for Somalis themselves to reach an agreement on Somaliland's status through dialogue, and for countries in the region to lead on recognising the outcome of this dialogue.