Somalia: Guinea
Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment his Department has made of (a) diplomatic relations between Somalia and Guinea, and (b) the effect of those relations are having on Somaliland.
Answered by: Harriett Baldwin
The UK is aware of the reported tensions between Somalia and Guinea. The two countries are responsible for their bilateral relationship. We are not aware of those relations having an effect on Somaliland. UK policy remains that it is for Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia to decide on a sustainable solution regarding their future. We continue to support and encourage plans for a peaceful dialogue between the two.
Somaliland: Politics and Government
Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what diplomatic steps he is taking to support democratic processes in Somaliland.
Answered by: Harriett Baldwin
The UK is committed to supporting Somaliland’s democratisation process, in particular timely elections in Somaliland. This forms an integral part of the ongoing dialogue between the British Office in Hargeisa and the Somaliland government. Earlier this month, our Ambassador to Somalia met President Bihi of Somaliland to underline the need for parliamentary and local council elections to take place on time, on 12 December 2019. The UK also provides technical expertise to the Somaliland election commission, and is working to support improvements to the voter registration system and promote women’s participation.
