MOGADISHU, Somalia — The United Kingdom said it will not recognize Somaliland as an independent country after Israel announced recognition late last year.
Luke Bullock, U.K. deputy ambassador to Ethiopia, told Addis Standard that London encourages Hargeisa and Mogadishu to resolve disputes through dialogue.
“We support Somalia’s peace process, and international recognition of Somaliland will not help. We urge Hargeisa and Mogadishu to negotiate directly,” Bullock said.
Bullock added a jointly negotiated agreement involving Somaliland, Somalia, and Ethiopia would be the most effective solution for the region’s ongoing challenges.
The U.K. administered Somaliland for more than 70 years and granted it independence in 1960 but continues close cooperation with Hargeisa offices.
Repeatedly, the U.K. emphasized that recognition is not forthcoming, stressing that direct talks between Mogadishu and Hargeisa remain the preferred conflict resolution method.
The U.K. previously hosted Somalia-Somaliland talks in London in 2012, which lasted months but ultimately failed to produce a formal agreement.
Somaliland continues pursuing international recognition after Israel’s move, opposed by Somalia’s federal government and condemned by most countries as violating Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.