Friday July 12, 2024
Hargiesa (HOL) — The United States and Somaliland held discussions focusing on the security landscape of the Horn of Africa, the agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia, and the upcoming elections in Somaliland.
Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi hosted a delegation led by U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley on Thursday at the presidential palace. The talks aimed to reinforce bilateral relations and address key regional issues.
President Abdi provided Ambassador Riley with a briefing on Somaliland's election preparations, highlighting significant efforts to ensure timely elections despite challenges. "We are committed to holding the elections on schedule without external assistance," President Abdi stated, noting that this consensus has been agreed upon by the people of Somaliland and the political parties.
The meeting also covered overall security in the Horn of Africa. President Abdi discussed the contentious memorandum of understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia, telling the Americans that the agreement is designed to foster economic cooperation and poses no negative impact on others.
The agreement has faced intense criticism from Mogadishu, which claims its implementation could strengthen Al-Shabaab. President Abdi refuted these claims, stating, "The claim from Mogadishu that the implementation of the understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia will strengthen Al-Shabaab is not true. We believe that the implementation will enhance security cooperation."
During the meeting, Ambassador Riley acknowledged Somaliland's progress in security and democratic governance, affirming the United States' readiness to cooperate with Somaliland.
The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu released a statement reiterating the United States' commitment to supporting prosperity and democratic institutions in the region. Ambassador Riley encouraged regional cooperation and dialogue to resolve diplomatic and security challenges, underscoring the importance of adhering to election timelines.
Ambassador Riley also met with private sector leaders during his visit to promote further ties between Somaliland and the U.S. business community. He emphasized the vital role of a vibrant civil society and a free, professional press in fostering democratic governance.
The Somaliland-Ethiopia agreement has sparked major debate. This week, the U.S. refuted praise of the agreement, citing sovereignty concerns from Somalia. On Wednesday, Somaliland's Minister of Animal Husbandry and Rural Development, Saeed Sulub Mohamed, warned against the notion of greater Somalia unity, reflecting the political sensitivities surrounding the agreement. "Somaliland must protect its sovereignty vigorously. No one should take Somaliland for granted again," Mohamed stated.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has defended the memorandum amid protests from the Somali government and international criticism, claiming that the agreement is designed to promote regional stability and economic growth. Somaliland President Abdi shares this sentiment and has argued that the agreement could deter Red Sea attacks, highlighting its strategic importance.
Despite international concerns, Somaliland remains steadfast in its determination to finalize the agreement with Ethiopia, aiming to bolster economic cooperation and regional security.