Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) told UK Ambassador Charles King on Tuesday that Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition is “irreversible,” as the two sides discussed strengthening bilateral relations during a meeting in Hargeisa, the president’s spokesman said.
The UK ambassador arrived in Somaliland for an official visit aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two sides.
He was accompanied by Louise Hancock, the UK Government Representative at the British Office in Somaliland.
According to Somaliland presidential spokesperson Hussein Aadan Cige (Deyr), President Irro thanked the United Kingdom for its historic relationship, longstanding engagement, and support for Somaliland, particularly in development, security sector strengthening, infrastructure, and democratic governance.
Irro said the strategic partnership between Somaliland and the UK was built on “historical trust, mutual respect, sustainable cooperation, and shared interests.”
“The President of Somaliland once again emphasized that the process of seeking international recognition for the Republic of Somaliland is irreversible, saying it is based on legal rights, historical background, and the will of the people of Somaliland,” Deyr said.
He said Irro called on the United Kingdom to play a meaningful role in supporting Somaliland’s recognition efforts.
The president briefed the ambassador on Somaliland’s development priorities and highlighted potential areas for expanded cooperation, including water management and climate adaptation, energy, security, education, healthcare, trade, investment, democracy, and strengthening government institutions.
Irro reaffirmed his government’s commitment to deepening ties with London, describing the UK as a long-standing strategic partner that has supported Somaliland’s development, security, and institution-building efforts.
He also urged the United Kingdom to play a meaningful role in supporting Somaliland’s recognition campaign, arguing that the bid is based on “legal grounds, historical background, and the will of the people of Somaliland.”
For his part, Ambassador Charles King said the UK government values its historic relationship and cooperation with Somaliland.
The ambassador praised Somaliland’s security, stability, democratic processes, institution-building, and development achievements, describing it as a positive example in the region for peace and political stability, according to Somaliland presidential spokesperson Hussein Aadan Cige (Deyr).
The UK ambassador confirmed that Britain would continue strengthening cooperation and support for Somaliland.
The meeting comes as Somaliland seeks greater international recognition while Somalia continues to face political disputes, electoral tensions, and security challenges.
Hargeisa’s ongoing push for international recognition
Somaliland’s efforts to secure international recognition continue as Hargeisa seeks to expand diplomatic engagement with foreign governments, following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland in late December 2025 and amid renewed calls from Somaliland leaders for wider international support.
The Somaliland government has described recognition as a long-term strategic priority, arguing that it is based on its historical status, separate governance structures, democratic institutions, and the aspirations of its people.
President Irro has repeatedly said that Somaliland’s recognition campaign is irreversible, urging international partners, including the United Kingdom, to play a greater role in supporting its bid for recognition.
The UK remains one of Somaliland’s most important historical partners, with longstanding ties dating back to the colonial period and continued cooperation in areas including development, security, and governance.
Somaliland’s diplomatic push comes at a time of heightened political challenges in Somalia, where disputes over constitutional changes, elections, and relations between the federal government and member states have deepened tensions.
Hargeisa argues that its relative stability, democratic elections, and functioning institutions distinguish it from the wider instability affecting parts of Somalia, while Mogadishu continues to oppose any move toward Somaliland’s international recognition, maintaining that Somaliland remains part of Somalia.