MP Gavin Williamson greatly welcomed the Ethiopian government’s move to recognize Somaliland, and called on the UK to become the second country to recognize it.
MP Williamson, who is visiting the country, said in a statement,
As many of you know, I have long held an interest in the development and prosperity of Somaliland. I have campaigned tirelessly to see Somaliland formally recognised as the proud and vibrant country that it is.
I strongly welcome Ethiopia’s historic and strategic move to be the first country in Africa to recognise Somaliland as an independent nation. I now want to see the UK take a similarly decisive step by acting as the penholder for the UN in relation to Somaliland and Somalia.
The UK must pioneer the creation of a framework for the recognition of Somaliland worldwide. We need to see urgent action and leadership from the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office to ensure sovereignty for Somaliland. For far too long Britain has not done enough – at this watershed moment, the time has come for us to act boldly and resolutely.
Let’s take the lead in global affairs and help secure independence for Somaliland.
