By: Farrah Yusuf
Somaliland President Musa Bihi Abdi on Monday held talks in Hargeisa with UK ambassador to Somalia, Ben Fender.
The meeting took place at the presidential mansion where the Head of State of Somaliland received large delegation headed by UK envoy to Somalia, Ben Fender, who has paid a visit to Hargeisa.
The talks dwelt on bilateral relations and ways of bolstering ties, security in the region, elections, UK projects allotted for Somaliland and the stalled talks between Somalia and Somaliland, presidential palace said in a statement.
The incumbent president, Musa Bihi Abdi has thanked the UK govt for its support and aid to Somaliland. Mr. Bihi has further reiterated that his administration is determined to boost working relations with the international community.
He insisted on the resumption of the stalled talks with Somalia unless all the conditions earlier publicized must be met.
The UK delegation led by its ambassador to Somalia has lauded the progress made over the holding of free and fair parliament and local council polls in Somaliland.
The delegation also praised Somaliland govt and its people for taking important steps in the right direction.
Somaliland and DFID signed an agreement on the second phase whereby the UK govt is fulfilling its pledge to contribute to the Somaliland Development Fund (SDF).
Another agreement which is aimed at developing Somaliland’s solar energy has also been signed during the meeting whereby the UK govt is funding it.
Head of DFID for the UK govt Mr. Damon Bristow has signed the agreement on behalf of the UK.
The SDF is hugely contributed by Sweden, Norway, Denmark and the UK.
