Somaliland Firmly Rejects Unification with Somalia Following Museveni's Remark

Somaliland has rejected any discussion of unification with Somalia, contradicting Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni's offer to act as a mediator. Somaliland declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained widespread international recognition. The government of Somaliland stated that any dialogue with Somalia would focus on how the two countries can move forward separately. Some clan elders in disputed areas along the border with Somalia's Puntland state have expressed a desire to be part of Puntland rather than Somaliland. Heavy fighting in these areas has resulted in displacement and casualties.