Its clear that recent developments have led to an intriguing realignment in the political dynamics of northern Somalia. The question of who conceded their initial position remains somewhat unclear for both parties seem to have adjusted their stances without overtly admitting to doing so. Somaliland now asserts that it is engaging with a region of Somalia rather than the federal government in xamar a notable distinction that underscores its long-standing claim to autonomy and statehood indeed
The communiqué issued following their discussions was notably vague to be honest , yet significant in its implications. The two sides agreed to cooperate on matters of airspace management, intelligence sharing, border reopening, the facilitation of trade, and the free movement of people all pragmatic measures that suggest a willingness to prioritise stability and mutual benefit over entrenched political hostilities.
Reports circulating on various media channels, including some statements purportedly from Puntland figures, suggest that Puntland may have publicly affirmed Somaliland’s right to self-determination to gain independence . If such declarations are indeed authentic, they represent a profound shift. For Puntland, such a move could be strategically advantageous by recognising Somaliland’s position, it effectively removes itself from the contentious Laascaanood dispute, undercutting Mogadishu’s influence there and allowing Puntland to redirect its focus toward internal security concerns namely the threats posed by ISIS dacish, alkabaab, and the volatile situation in Galmudug.
For Somaliland, the benefits are equally clear It gains a cooperative partner in Garowe, a regional administration within Somalia that appears willing to engage on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests rather than subordination to Mogadishu this has never happened for decades . Symbolically and strategically, this represents a step towards the normalisation of Somaliland’s regional status and the softening of decades-old hostilities.
In sum, this emerging rapprochement between Puntland and Somaliland if sustained could mark the most constructive development in inter regional relations in the Horn of Africa for many years. Both sides appear to have buried the hatchet, at least for now, in pursuit of a more stable and pragmatic regional order. also it all could have been a policy that came from abudhabi , to create regional allies between hargeisa and garowe.