HARGEISA, Somaliland (HornPost) — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) met with British Ambassador Charles King at the Presidential Palace to discuss bilateral relations, regional security and economic cooperation.
King was accompanied by senior officials from the UK diplomatic office in Somaliland. The visit focused on strengthening cooperation in peace, development, trade and investment.
Irro Highlights Government Priorities
President Irro thanked the British government for its longstanding support for Somaliland. He said his administration was ready to deepen cooperation with the United Kingdom for mutual benefit.
The president briefed the ambassador on measures his government says it has taken since taking office. These included integrating civil defense forces, providing them with vehicles and working to end longstanding clan conflicts in the Ceel Afweyn area.
He also cited a nationwide census and salary increases for several units of the national armed forces.
President Calls for Dialogue in Eastern Regions
Irro told the ambassador that his government remained committed to resolving the security situation in the eastern regions of Sool and Sanaag through dialogue and negotiation.
He said that, following his inauguration on Dec. 12, 2024, he had launched a peace initiative and established a National Peace Committee. He said his administration had repeatedly called for dialogue to resolve the conflict.
The president also accused Somalia’s federal government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, of contributing to tensions in the eastern regions. The allegation was presented as Irro’s position during the meeting.
Regional Security and Governance
The two sides discussed regional peace and security, the rule of law, good governance and economic development.
Irro highlighted Somaliland’s role in regional stability and called for support for efforts to promote lasting peace in the Horn of Africa.
The discussions also covered trade, investment opportunities and infrastructure development.
UK Ambassador Highlights Berbera’s Potential
Ambassador King reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s longstanding relationship with the people and government of Somaliland.
He praised the region’s economic potential, particularly that of Berbera Port, and stressed the importance of private investment in supporting economic growth.
King also commended Somaliland’s peace and stability, democratic processes and efforts to integrate civil defense forces and strengthen public order.
However, he expressed concern about the situation in Las Anod. He warned that further escalation could increase insecurity and said the UK government urged all parties to avoid actions that could intensify the conflict.
Commitment to Continued Cooperation
The meeting ended with both sides expressing a commitment to strengthening cooperation between Somaliland and the United Kingdom.
The discussions covered security, peacebuilding, governance, trade and investment, amid continuing regional challenges.
HornPost Staff Reporter
