NY (SD) – The Russian government has for the first time addressed the ongoing talks between Somalia and Somaliland Governments.

Russia’s envoy to the United Nations has issued a statement praising the progress made by the Somali government in collaboration with regional administrations in the upcoming elections.

“It is important to resume talks between the governments of Somalia and Somaliland,” the statement said.

Russia called for an immediate start to negotiations, as to reach a lasting solution to Somaliland’s concerns and other issues between the parties.

The Russian UN envoy weighed in on Somalia’s 2020/2021 election process.

“We commend the political dialogue between the Federal Government of Somalia and the regional administrations on electoral issues,” the statement said.

The statement comes at a time when Somalia is facing controversial election process and the government and opposition candidates are embroiled in political tensions over the government appointed electoral commissions.

Unlike other western countries, Russia doesn’t on a regular basis comment Somalia’s political issues.