Somaliland: KULMIYE
Statement on the Horn of Africa
Drawing
on a reputation for neutrality and commitment to peace, Somalilandīs
KULMIYE PARTY is in favour of a peaceful means for resolving all the
disputes in the Horn of Africa. Our vision for the regionīs
stabilisation reflects on this principle and is anchored around the
following five key priorities.
First, we support an inclusive political dialogue and integrated
peace approach aiming to achieve a broader consensus among the
parties in conflict in bringing an end to the prolonged regional
confrontations.
Second, we call on the international community to provide effective
development and humanitarian assistance to the civilian population
that are caught up in these conflicts.
Third, we encourage efforts aimed at creating conditions that are
conducive for building democratically representative institutions
that would facilitate greater participation in the decision-making
process.
Fourth, we advocate for a regional economic integration and freedom
of trade.
Fifth, we deny extremist groups the opportunity to find a safe haven
in the region.
In achieving the above policy priorities, we believe that an
internationally- supported and regionally- coordinated diplomatic
strategy is the best way forward, with an integrated peace building
and post-conflict planning.
We strongly believe that promoting democracy and freedom is
essential for the broader regional peace programme, including
supporting peaceful and effective administrations in the region,
acknowledging democratic initiatives and defending free media. We
recognize these are the only ideas that can lead to a lasting
stability in the region.
We are also of the opinion that a free trade and market economy with
investment opportunities will facilitate a peaceful co-existence and
a desire for cooperation among the people in the Horn. Therefore, we
call for a regional economic policy reform that could create
incentives for peace and tolerance.
We believe these are important steps towards the goal of a peaceful,
comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflicts in the Horn,
as well as rebuilding the communities devastated by these conflicts.
For this purpose, we work with our partners in the region with whom
we share these values and, together, we work on achieving
well-governed, law-abiding democratic states.
Contrary to fabricated reports by Somaliland government officials,
KULMIYE supports neither Eritrea nor any other groups that are
engaged in the regional disputes. Instead, we call on all the
parties involved to choose for a peaceful and democratic path to
advance their interests and to redress injustices.
Promoting democratic development and fighting against extremism have
made Somaliland peaceful and stable. KULMIYE is determined to
promote this process. We respect civil rights, freedom of expression
and individual freedom. We believe that applying these values and
focussing on the above policy priorities will give Somaliland an
opportunity to build a better relationship with the region and to
enhance its national security.
Dr. Mohamed A. Omar
KULMIYE FOREIGN AFFAIRS SPOKESMAN
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