Hargeisa (SD) – Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi has responded to a recent statement by members of Puntland’s parliament, that Somaliland should be added to the terrorist list.

“The Puntland State Parliament presented a debate saying that Somaliland should be added to the list of terrorists. We say as the nation of the Republic of Somaliland we are extending peace to Somalia and we do not want violence” said President Muse Bihi Abdi.

Speaking at the commemoration of the founding of the police force, Muse Bihi said that the call from his neighbors came as a surprise.

“We did not expect Puntland to go there. In the past, Mogadishu is known for this, but it was not expected from Puntland, where we live next door to each other and live in peace with people and goods flowing,” the President said.

Adding “We, as the nation of Somaliland, extend our commitment and prayers to a peaceful Somalia. We do not expect violence from them, instead we expect and wish for peace and brotherhood”

Finally, he called on Puntland to maintain peace and good neighborliness, saying that they have many interests in common with Somaliland.

President Bihi’s remarks come as Puntland lawmakers attending the opening of the 49th session of parliament this week recommended adding Somaliland to the terrorist list for ousting civilians from Las Anod.