David Cameron: Somaliland Is A Model For Somalia And Africa

Milton Keynes, UK, May 30, 2009 (SL Times) – David Cameron, the standard bearer of the conservative party in Britain and a heavy favorite for winning the next election said that Somaliland could be a model for Somalia and Africa. The opposition leader was giving a lecture at the Open University at Milton Keynes and was asked a question by Munir Ahmad Egal, a freelance journalist who is originally from Somaliland. Mr. Egal's question to the prime minister was: "Mr. Cameron, I was born in Somaliland, and, with all due respect, want to know why you have not recognized my country which has been peaceful for the last eighteen years and has had several democratic elections?"

Mr. Cameron replied, "Somaliland has achieved a lot, it lives in peace, its people were spared fighting, and I hope it will become a model for Somalia which has experienced continuous warfare and Africa."
Munir Ahmad Egal then asked Mr. Cameron, "Is it possible that you would recognize Somaliland if you become head of government?
Mr. Cameron answered, "We are looking forward to Somaliland's election and how the election will go; I cannot give you an answer about recognition at the moment, but I can say that Somaliland has done a lot for which it deserves appreciation."
Munir Ahmad Egal could not ask Mr. Cameron more questions because of shortage of time but he was impressed with Mr. Cameron's positive attitude toward Somalil