THT- The people and government of the United Kingdom not only acknowledge but shall continue to support the democratization, development and Security garnered by Somaliland in three decades.
This was stated by the British envoy to Somalia and Somaliland Ambassador Kate Foster during a courtesy call to President Musa Bihi .
Amb Foster who was making her maiden visit to Somaliland since assuming duties earlier in the year was accompanied by a delegation including Stuart Brown the UK representative in Hargeisa.
According to a statement released by the Somaliland presidential press office the meeting between UK and Somaliland officials held at the Presidency in Hargeisa and chaired by president Bihi concurred on the imperatives on enhanced relations between the two countries
For her part, the new Ambassador thanked the President and the people of the Republic of Somaliland for the progress, democracy and security they have achieved over the past 30 years, saying she was pleased to be in the country and that the government would step up its efforts. work between the two parties in the past.
To jumpstart discussions President Bihi who extend a warm welcome to the visiting British diplomatic mission from the people and government of Somaliland went on to brief on democratic process that has taken place in Somaliland since its withdrawal from the so-called Republic of Somalia, thirty years ago.
“Though we remain international unrecognized as a sovereign country despite fulfilling all requirements Somaliland has made great strides thus set an example for many countries in the Horn of Africa.” Said the president
The meeting discussed issues such as strengthening relations between the two countries, preparations for the Republic of Somaliland’s elections to the House of Representatives and local Councils slated for the 31st May this year.
The meeting also discussed the UK’s support for the Republic of Somaliland in terms of social development projects, as well as the current security situation in the Horn of Africa region.
Upon thanking the President and the people of the Republic of Somaliland for the progress, democracy and security they have achieved over the past 30 years, Amb Kate Foster she was pleased to be in the country and that her government would step up its efforts in not only sustaining but enhancing existing relations with Somaliland.
Ms Kate Foster OBE was appointed Her Majesty’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Somalia in succession to Mr Ben Fender OBE, earlier in the year
Ms Foster has extensive experience working on Africa, including on humanitarian and security issues. She has previously served as the Deputy Director, International Affairs, in the National Security Secretariat in the Cabinet Office. Since joining the UK Government, she has also held senior roles on the Ebola Response, Africa Strategy, and as Head of Africa Conflict and Humanitarian Unit.
Prior to joining the UK Government, Ms Foster has also worked as a Programme Director at Save the Children and the International Rescue Committee across Africa.
Find out more about Kate Foster