Mogadishu, Somalia After years of tension and conflict, Somalia and the breakaway region of Somaliland have reached a historic agreement on eight principles that will guide future negotiations. The landmark deal, signed in Djibouti under the auspices of President Ismail Omar Guelleh, marks a significant step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the decades-long dispute.
Eight Pillars for Peace:
- Open Dialogue: Both parties have committed to engaging in fair and unbiased dialogue, ensuring concerns from both sides are heard and addressed.
- Roadmap to Resolution: A detailed roadmap for negotiations will be crafted within 30 days, outlining the path towards a mutually agreeable settlement.
- Honoring Past Agreements: Commitments made during previous talks (2012–2020) will be upheld and built upon.
- International Support: Increased international assistance is sought for capacity building and institutional development, particularly in Somaliland’s Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions.
- Addressing Security Challenges: Both governments pledge to collaboratively tackle security threats, including counter-terrorism and conflict resolution.
- Regional Peace Efforts: Cities and regions impacted by past conflicts are encouraged to embrace peace and stability, fostering a conducive environment for dialogue.
- Preserving Dialogue Integrity: Both parties agree to refrain from actions that could disrupt the dialogue and undermine its dignity.
- Appreciation for Djibouti’s Role: The leaders of Somalia and Somaliland acknowledge and commend President Guelleh and Djibouti for their crucial role in hosting and facilitating the dialogue.
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The UK embassy in Somalia described the agreement as an “important step towards conflict resolution,” and the international community has welcomed it. However, the President of Puntland, a semi-autonomous state in northern Somalia, expressed disapproval, citing his exclusion from the talks and ongoing border disputes with Somaliland.
Despite the challenges, the Djibouti agreement offers a glimmer of hope for lasting peace in Somalia. The eight principles provide a solid foundation for future negotiations, and the commitment from both sides to engage in open dialogue is a positive sign. With continued international support and regional cooperation, the long-standing conflict between Somalia and Somaliland may finally be nearing a peaceful resolution.
