Hargeysa, Somaliland, July 28, 2007 – The president of Somaliland, Hon Dahir Rayale, on Monday met a delegation led by the European Union special envoy to Somalia and Somaliland, Georges-Marc Andre, at the presidential palace in Hargeysa. The envoy and his team were on a short visit to Somaliland. The two sides discussed several issues including the EU financial aid to Somaliland. The envoy promised to raise this issue with the European Union in order to give Somaliland full financial support.

Commenting on the forthcoming general elections, Mr. Andre said that Somaliland should continue with the democratic process in order to finalize pending issues that are necessary for the coming elections. He further promised that the EU will give financial support to Somaliland in order to make the election successful.

The president of the Republic of Somaliland has said that it was necessary that the EU gives special consideration to the needs of Somaliland in terms of economical development specially on health, infrastructure and other social services.

The reports were received from the spokesman of Somaliland, Said Adani Moge, who said that the EU special envoy is expected to hold several meetings with politicians and other non-governmental organizations operating in Somaliland.

Source: SL Times