The Government of the Republic of Somaliland Welcomes Kenya’s Recognition of Kosovo and Sees It as a Boost to Its Own Recognition Efforts
The Government of the Republic of Somaliland has welcomed Kenya’s recognition of the Republic of Kosovo, stating that this step further encourages Somaliland’s ongoing efforts to gain international recognition.
Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Abdirahman Dahir Aden, spoke to the Somaliland News Agency (SOLNA), calling on African Union member states to follow Kenya’s lead and recognize Somaliland. He emphasized that such a move would greatly contribute to strengthening trade and security across the Horn of Africa and the continent as a whole.
“I welcome Kenya’s recognition of the Republic of Kosovo. This step further encourages Somaliland’s efforts to push African Union member states to recognize Somaliland’s independence, as our nation can play a vital role in connecting Africa in terms of trade and security,” said the Foreign Minister.
The minister also reaffirmed that Somaliland’s case for independence is fully in line with international legal principles, stating:
“The Republic of Somaliland, whose independence is based on international legal frameworks, continues to work tirelessly to gain global recognition from the international community.”
Somaliland-Kenya Relations
The minister also discussed the close ties between Somaliland and Kenya, highlighting their strong cooperation. He noted:
“Somaliland and Kenya share strong neighborly relations, with nearly ten thousand Kenyan citizens currently working in Somaliland.”
Finally, the minister urged Kenya and other African nations to take bold action by recognizing Somaliland, stating:
“Therefore, I encourage the government of Kenya and the nations of the Horn of Africa to take a courageous step in recognizing the Republic of #Somaliland—a democratic nation with a functioning government established by the will of its people.”