By: Yusuf M Hasan
HARGEISA (Somalilandsun) – “Your Excellency I hereby extend an official invitation for talks with the highest levels of authority in Paris whenever your schedule allows”
This invitation was extended by the in-coming French envoy to Kenya, Somaliland and Somalia Ambassador Etienne De Poncins at the presidency in Hargeisa where he had presented his credentials to the head of state.
According to Amb De Poncins who is the first full-fledged Ambassador both to Somaliland and Somalia in 25 years , this is the first direct engagement with both countries and that the French republic has a lot of interests in Somaliland be it political or commercial.
Said he “Apart from economic interests in Somaliland from French companies, the government of France intent’s to enhance Cultural exchange such as promoting the French language, economic development, bilateral and political relations with Somaliland,”
The visit by the French ambassador comes a day after another high level one made by the EU ambassador to Somalia and Somaliland in which the EU informed of its continued interaction with Somaliland directly.
Analysts say that the recent flurry of activities seen in the country from western authorities is a direct result of boycotting the Somalia conference held in London on 7th may as well as the banning of UN flights after UNDP handed over this country’s airspace management to the Mogadishu based government.
Listent to the after President silanyo meeting press conference by Foreign minister Dr Omar and Amb du Poncins
