HARGEISA (SLpost)- President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro has called on the United Kingdom to formally recognize Somaliland, arguing that continued delay ignores the political realities and democratic achievements Somaliland has built over the past three decades.
In an interview with The Telegraph, President Irro presented Somaliland as a peaceful, democratic, and strategically important nation that has already proven its legitimacy through stability, governance, and self-reliance.
The president stressed that Somaliland’s case for recognition is grounded in its historical sovereignty, noting its brief independence in 1960 as the former British Somaliland Protectorate before the union with Somalia. Since 1991, Somaliland has operated as a self-governing entity with its own institutions, security forces, elections, and independent administration.
He argued that Somaliland fulfills the core criteria of statehood, including a defined territory, permanent population, functioning government, and the capacity to engage in foreign relations.
President Irro also urged Britain to take a leading role in reassessing Somaliland’s status, citing the UK’s historic connection to the region and its influence in global diplomacy.
Strategic Engagement and International Attention
The president highlighted Somaliland’s growing international engagement, particularly its strategic position along key Red Sea shipping routes and the expanding role of Berbera Port as a regional trade hub.
In recent years, Somaliland has also expanded diplomatic outreach to multiple countries and international actors. On 25 December, 2025, Israel became the first UN member state that formally recognized the statehood and sovereignty of Somaliland. Since then there have been increasing formal engagement and strategic dialogue with various partners, including discussions involving security cooperation and regional stability initiatives.
A Renewed Call for Recognition
President Irro emphasized that Somaliland’s stability, democratic record, and security contributions make it a reliable partner for international cooperation. He argued that recognition would strengthen not only Somaliland’s future but also regional security and global maritime stability.
The president’s remarks are expected to intensify ongoing debates about Somaliland’s future and whether major powers, including the United Kingdom, should formally recognize its independence.
Source: Somalilandpost News
