By Ahmed Kheyre

Sir,  

There recent statement from the United States State Department spokesman, Mr. Sean McCormack on Somaliland will be interpreted in different ways by different parties. 

Somalilanders and its supporters will see it as a strong indication that the issue of Somaliland is finally under discussion, whilst those opposed to the recognition will see this as a vindication of their position.

However, the fact the Mr. McCormack was obliged to include Somaliland in his daily briefing would give little comfort to anti-Somaliland forces and it is a strong indication that Somaliland's diplomatic efforts are gaining momentum.

Coupled with the latest carnage in Mogadishu, the irrelevance of the Transitional Federal Government in Somalia, it seems that Mr. MrCormack was towing the "official line" which has no bearing on the reality on the ground.

Somalilanders see the United States as a fair arbitrator of international affairs, and we also appreciate that the United States must observe all the niceties of "diplomatic speak", but the fact the Somaliland President met with senior administration officials from the State Department, Pentagon and the White House security council is proof enough that the Somaliland issue is finally on the agenda. 

We, as Somalilanders, understand the United State’s position that the African Union must take initiative in the Somaliland issue, but we also appreciate that without the influence of the United States, it is a case of "much to do about nothing".

Somalilanders both home and abroad are heartened by our President's visit to Washington. This was clearly demonstrated by the events of Thursday across Somaliland. 

It is clear that Somaliland and the United States will engage in terms of areas of mutual interests, fighting terrorism, promoting democracy and good governance and maintaining stability in a strategic region.

In conclusion, what Mr. McCormack was saying is that although Somaliland and the United States are engaging with each other, the issue of recognition is not on the table, not yet anyway.

When the issue of recognition is on the table will be determined by Somaliland's continued march towards democracy and good governance along with the realisation of those interested parties such as the United States, the African Union, the European Union, the United Nations, etc, that recognising Somaliland is the only way forward in the region.

Ahmed Kheyre
London. United Kingdom