1. (U) Minister of Foreign Affairs of the self-proclaimed
Republic of Somaliland, Edna Adan Ismail, visited Djibouti 12
September to discuss the relationship between Djibouti and
Somaliland. Among the topics discussed was the facilitation
of an economic cooperation between the two governments.



2. (U) Somaliland newspapers reported that the Government of
Djibouti agreed to allow a liaison office in Djibouti. This
type of bureau had existed in Djibouti in the past but closed
abruptly during the Arta Conference in 2000 when relations
between Djibouti and Somaliland began to sour. The newspaper
also said that the Government of Djibouti has agreed to
donate one building and one residence for the use of the
Somaliland interest section. (Note: Post has not been able
to verify this last information. End Note)



3. (C) Ismail told Econ Assistant in a recent e-mail that
Somaliland will open a liaison office in Djibouti, which will
be headed by Rashid Yasin Obsiye. She said there had been no
credentialling rising to the level of recognition.
RAGSDALE