Abdisaid Muse Ali, Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, held a phone conversation with Vicky Ford, the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa.
Ali’s phone call with Ford took place on Tuesday, January 18.
It took place on the day that the UK parliament held a heated debate on the status of Somaliland.
For decades, Somaliland has sought international recognition without much success.
Ali’s discussions with Ford centered around the need for strengthening diplomatic relations.
Further, the two leaders discussed the importance of Somalia remaining united.
The Somalia minister reminded Ford of his country’s commitment to advancing bilateral relations with the UK.
He reiterated his hope that the two countries would forge relations based on mutual respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity.
Ali’s sentiments obviously hinged on the events of the day back in the UK parliament.
There have been growing calls for the UK to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent nation.
