HARGEISA (SD) – The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), last night inaugurated a new institute in the city of Hargeisa named ‘The Institute for Somaliland Independence and Recognition,’ which is said to focus on accelerating the campaign for Somaliland’s recognition and promoting its cause internationally.

The President stated that this institute will be led by individuals who are close friends of Somaliland, noting that the chairman of the institute has been appointed as MP Sir Gavin Williamson, who comes from the United Kingdom, and he will be accompanied by other members, including scholars, politicians, and international supporters.

‘The institute will be chaired by Somaliland’s friend Sir Gavin Williamson, who will be accompanied by many friends that Somaliland has, and more than 2,000 friends of Somaliland are ready,’ said the President of Somaliland.

He stated that this institute will collect the history of Somaliland, the legal arguments it seeks for recognition, and the different stages of the struggle for self-determination. The President also mentioned that the institute has been officially registered in the United Kingdom, so that it can operate internationally.

President Irro pointed out that the members of the institute are mostly university lecturers, experts, parliamentarians, and scholars specialized in political science and international law, who will work on convincing the international community about the Somaliland issue.

He indicated that the members of the institute are committed to realizing Somaliland’s goal of obtaining international recognition, with the institute serving as a center that unites the discussions and efforts for seeking recognition.

For his part, the head of the institute said that Somaliland is an example of democracy and stability in the Horn of Africa, describing it as ‘a light shining from the African continent.’ He accused the Somali government of always trying to hinder Somaliland’s progress, but said they will do everything for Somaliland to succeed.

Finally, he called on the international community to officially recognize Somaliland, saying that Israel is a worthy example to follow and that its path should be emulated.