With a new president, Somaliland seeks international recognition
As the country's new president took office last week, following a peaceful election in a region otherwise in turmoil, Somaliland hopes to see its independence recognised by the international community – having declared it in 1991.
The self-governing region within Somalia – which has never been recognised by the latter's authorities – appears to be closer to being recognised than ever before.
Speaking at his inauguration in Hargeisa on 12 December, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi said he would give "special importance to foreign policy" and pursue recognition for Somaliland from the international community based on a “valid legal argument".
"My new government's first job is to renew its relations with the rest of the world in order for us to be able to create a new Somaliland that will help the security of the entire region, including the Red Sea," he declared.
The United States Ambassador to Somalia, Richard H. Riley, attended the president's inauguration and said that Somaliland was "one of the best examples of democracy in action in Africa".
Key election
The presidential election was held in November, following weeks of uncertainty.
The results saw Mohamed Abdullahi, 69, leader of the Waddani party, also known as “Cirro”, secure the presidency with 64 percent of the vote, defeating the incumbent candidate, Muse Bihi, of the Kulmiye party.
Read more on RFI English
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