Somaliland’s Vice President, H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi Farah, has called upon citizens in the Awdal region to remain united in protecting national security and peace, while sending a firm message to neighboring countries to respect Somaliland’s sovereignty and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs.
Speaking to hundreds of residents who gathered the city’s public square to welcome him and his delegation on Saturday during an official visit to the region, the Vice President emphasized the historic significance of Somaliland’s recent international recognition.
“It has been a week since Somaliland received formal recognition,” he said. “Awdal is a part of Somaliland, and we wholeheartedly welcome it. For thirty-five years, Somaliland has been knocking on the world’s door asking to be recognized. Whoever comes forward—we will not turn them away. We welcome them.”
He stressed that politics, religion, and culture are separate matters, adding: “Everyone has their own beliefs. Those criticizing Somaliland today are the same ones who first acknowledged similar formalities.”
Addressing neighboring countries, the Vice President stated: “We want to live in peace with our neighbors. Every nation is independent in its responsibilities, interests, economy, and politics. Let each govern its own as Somaliland steadily chart its own future as per her own aspirations”.
He reminded the audience that President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) had previously sent formal requests for recognition to 139 countries, adding: “We are waiting. They will come, and we will welcome them.”
On security, the Vice President described it as “a precious asset,” urging citizens to work together to preserve it from within and stand united against any attempts to undermine or interfere with Somaliland’s stability.
“I call upon all of us to jointly protect the security of Awdal region—one of the keys to Somaliland foundation,” he said.
“Borama is among the founding cities of Somaliland. Today, no one with ulterior motives can claim Somaliland does not exist—we call that a lie”, he said.
The visit and remarks come amid heightened national pride following Somaliland’s first formal international recognition and underscore the government’s focus on internal peaceful unity and regional stability.
