Since 1991, when Somaliland withdrew from the failed union with Somalia, every President of Somaliland has been approached with offers of money, political leverage, or diplomatic incentives to reconsider reunification with Somalia. The first to try was Muammar Gaddafi, who attempted to convince President Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal. Similar overtures were made to Presidents Dahir Rayale Kahin, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud “Silanyo,” Muse Bihi Abdi, and now even to President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi “Cirro.”

Each of these leaders responded with the same unwavering message: they were elected to protect the territorial integrity of Somaliland, and Somaliland’s independence, dignity, and nationhood are not for sale at any cost.

Yet what remains astonishing—almost predictable—is that every new diplomat posted to the region arrives believing he has discovered a “new solution” that no one else has ever imagined. They advise that Somaliland and Somalia “sit together and resolve their differences,” unaware that since 2012, more than ten rounds of formal talks have already........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)