HARGEISA, Somalia In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley visited Somaliland on July 11, 2024, amidst escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.
The visit comes at a time when the region is grappling with complex geopolitical dynamics, including the controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
Ambassador Riley’s visit to Somaliland, despite the lack of formal recognition, indicates a potential shift towards a more flexible and pragmatic approach that prioritizes the United States’ national security interest, focusing on regional stability and cooperation.
The discussions during the visit centered on the robust relationship between Somaliland and the United States, the overall security situation in the Horn of Africa, electoral processes in Somaliland, and the recently signed MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland welcomed the delegation led by Ambassador Riley at the presidential palace. The President underscored the importance of respecting the autonomy of regional partners in forging mutually beneficial diplomatic and strategic relationships.
He emphasized the significant efforts being made to ensure the elections proceed smoothly, acknowledging the challenges these elections pose for the nation.
Ambassador Riley, who has a distinguished career in foreign service, expressed the United States’ readiness to enhance cooperation with Somaliland, applauding the progress and democratic strides made by the Republic of Somaliland.
The Chairman of the main opposition party, Waddani, also met with Ambassador Riley, stating, “This afternoon, we had a fruitful meeting in Hargeisa with US Ambassador Richard H. Riley regarding the importance of holding Somaliland’s upcoming combined elections on time on November 13th, emphasizing the importance of political stability and security in the region.”
The visit of Ambassador Riley to Somaliland highlights the United States’ commitment to supporting prosperity and democratic institutions in the region. The discussions focused on encouraging regional cooperation and dialogue to resolve diplomatic and security challenges and the importance of adhering to election timelines.
The visit comes at a time when the U.S. government has refuted claims circulating on social media that U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Mike Hammer praised a controversial agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia during his recent visit to Addis Ababa. The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu issued a statement clarifying that these reports are false.
The U.S. government’s commitment to supporting regional stability and cooperation in the Horn of Africa is evident from Ambassador Riley’s visit to Somaliland.
As the region continues to grapple with complex geopolitical dynamics, the United States’ diplomatic efforts are crucial in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
