This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
Published on July 2, 2019, Somaliland has responded to Somalia's move to summon Kenya's ambassador in Mogadishu over claims that Kenya recognized Somaliland as an independent state.
Instead of acknowledging Somalia's concerns, Somaliland called on Mogadishu to recognize its sovereignty, stating that it was irreversible.
"It is with great dismay that Somaliland Liaison Office has come to learn of the protest by the Government of Somalia to Kenya with regards to the tweet by the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kenya, Ambassador Macharia Kamau that highlighted on Kenya and Somaliland's keenness on cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Somaliland's engagement with other Countries is not a new phenomenon," read part of the statement.
According to Somaliland, it has been engaging with various countries, including Ethiopia, the UAE, Djibouti, and international organizations, and has established successful bilateral agreements that have paved the way for development and mutual benefit.
However, Somalia has continuously protested and complained about Somaliland's engagements, including a recent incident where Somalia protested at the United Nations over President Muse Bihi's trip to the United Arab Emirates.
Somalia's actions have been seen as a hindrance to Somaliland's quest for development and cooperation with other states, with Somaliland calling on Somalia to exercise good neighborliness and refrain from protesting over its engagements.
