By: Yusuf M Hasan
HARGEISA (Somalilandsun) – The French authorities in Paris are intent on enhancing multi-sectored partnership with the republic of Somaliland
This intent was revealed following a meeting between the president of Somaliland Ahmed Mahmud Silanyo and the French envoy to Somalia and Somaliland Ambassador Remi Marechaux held at the presidency in Hargeisa.
Following the closed door meeting the visiting ambassador and Somaliland foreign minister held a joint press briefing in which snippets of discussions were issued chief among them the expected particaitati0n of Paris in the international sanctioned talks between Somaliland and Somalia hosted by Turkey.
“While we are aligned with others on the issue of Somaliland’s sovereignty this does not stop my government from viewing or integrating with Somaliland in a distinct manner” said Amb Marechaux in reference to requests for intervention at the UN where France is a permanent member of the Security Council.
The diplomat who also revealed that Paris shall soon establish a French Cultural centre at the Hargeisa University for training of Somalilanders in the French language and other related issues also infirmed that investors from his country are enroute to Somaliland fronted by Bollore logistics which has a stake at the Berbera port.
The joint Press Briefing initially in Somalia language but largely in English can be heard HERE
