HARGEISA, Somaliland — (HornPost) — The government of Somaliland has raised concerns over a visit by a senior United Nations delegation to Las Anod, saying visits by senior international officials to politically and security-sensitive areas should be coordinated through established diplomatic channels.
In a statement issued Sunday by Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the government said it had taken note of the UN delegation’s visit to the city.
Somaliland said it remains committed to facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance to communities in need, including residents of Las Anod. However, it stressed that visits by senior UN officials to sensitive areas should involve prior notification, consultation and coordination with the Somaliland government.
“The Government wishes to underscore, however, that visits by senior United Nations officials to areas of political and security sensitivity should be undertaken through established diplomatic channels,” the ministry said in its statement.
The government added that it continues to value its “longstanding and constructive partnership” with the United Nations and reaffirmed its commitment to sustained cooperation.
It also said it expects established diplomatic procedures and official communication channels to be fully respected in future engagements.
UN Engagement in Las Anod
The UN has previously maintained close engagement with the situation in Las Anod, particularly following the outbreak of fighting in 2023. UN officials and international partners called for de-escalation, protection of civilians, unhindered humanitarian access and a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
The United Nations Security Council also expressed concern over the violence in Las Anod and called for a ceasefire and peaceful dialogue among the parties involved.
The latest UN delegation visit comes amid continuing political sensitivity surrounding Las Anod and the wider Sool region, making the Somaliland government’s call for diplomatic coordination a significant part of the visit.
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff
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Hargeisa, Somaliland
