By December 28, 2023 The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, attended a meeting in Djibouti to continue the talks between the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland.
In September 2021, talks between Somaliland and Somalia were ongoing but faced significant challenges. Somaliland, a self-declared independent state, has sought international recognition as a separate entity from Somalia since it declared independence in 1991. However, Somalia considers Somaliland as part of its territory.
Over the years, there have been several attempts to facilitate negotiations between Somaliland and Somalia to address their political differences and discuss issues like governance, security, and resource sharing. These talks have been mediated by regional organizations, such as the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and have involved international actors, including the United Nations and the African Union.
The talks have had varying degrees of progress and setbacks. While some agreements have been reached on issues like airspace management and economic cooperation, the core question of Somaliland’s political status and recognition remains a major sticking point. Somalia has maintained its position that Somaliland is an integral part of its territory and has resisted recognizing it as an independent state.
The political dynamics and priorities of the governments in both Somaliland and Somalia have also influenced the progress of the negotiations. The stability and security challenges faced by Somalia, including ongoing conflicts with militant groups like Al-Shabaab, have often diverted attention and resources away from the talks.
It’s worth this time that the president of Somalia H.E Prof. Hassan Sheik Mohamud is attempting to re-open talks with Somaliland in close collaboration with Djibouti President H.E Ismail Omar Gelle.
