Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has had recent discussions with his counterpart in Somaliland on the recent violence in Las Anod; and whether he has taken recent steps to help promote dialogue between clan militias and the authorities in that country.
Answered on
6 March 2023
The UK has been pressing for an urgent end to the violence in Las Anod. The UK has raised the issue regularly with the Somaliland authorities, including Somaliland President Bihi, alongside other international partners. The UK joined UN statements on 7 and 14 February that urged both sides to prevent further civilian casualties, allow unfettered humanitarian access and engage in dialogue. On 28 February, following discussions in Washington, the UK issued a joint statement with Qatar, Somalia, Turkey, the UAE and the US calling on all parties to de-escalate. We will, with partners, continue to encourage talks between clan elders, and continue to engage all parties involved to try to bring an end to the violence and prevent regional instability.