British Lawmaker Calls Somaliland a Democratic Beacon in the Horn of Africa.
HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) Gavin Williamson said Israel made the “right decision” in recognizing Somaliland, describing the move as a significant step toward broader international acknowledgment of Somaliland’s sovereignty and democratic progress.
Williamson made the remarks during a ceremony in Hargeisa marking the 35th anniversary of Somaliland’s restored independence. The event was held at the Presidential Palace and attended by senior Somaliland officials, diplomats and international guests.
Williamson Highlights Somaliland’s Democracy and Stability
In his speech, the British lawmaker praised Somaliland for building a nation founded on freedom, free speech, fairness and the rule of law despite lacking widespread international recognition.
Williamson said
“A nation that at its very heart has freedom, has free speech, has fairness and has the rule of law at the heart of it. That is something that every single person should feel deeply proud of because that is what is made by people. But the challenge, the fight goes on because for far too long, people have not been willing to do that simple act of recognizing Somaliland. The terrorist regime in Mogadishu does not will every single day act to put the people of this nation down. That means that we must fight harder”
Williamson said Somaliland had become an example of democratic governance and stability in the Horn of Africa, adding that the international community had failed for too long to recognize what Somaliland has achieved.
He pledged to continue advocating internationally for Somaliland’s recognition and stronger diplomatic engagement.
UK MP Urges More Countries to Follow Israel’s Lead
The UK parliamentarian described Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an act of political courage and expressed hope that other nations would follow the same path.
Williamson said Somaliland’s progress and resilience deserved global support and recognition, calling the territory a “beacon of light” for future generations in the region.
The remarks come amid increasing diplomatic engagement between Somaliland and Israel following recent high-level meetings and official exchanges between the two sides.
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Prepared by:
Horn post staff
News Desk Hargeisa
