Somalia: Puntland decries Somaliland’s oil search

GAROWE, Somalia, December 12, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Officials in Somalia’s Northeastern State of Puntland have condemned Somaliland’s pursuit of oil exploration activities, warning of grim consequences, Garowe Online reports.

Earlier on Wednesday, Puntland Information Minister Mohamud Hassan So’adde said that his administration is closely monitoring foreign companies conducting surveys in disputed Sool region, an area rich in acreages and straddles disputed territories between Puntland and breakaway Somaliland.

He alleged that Somaliland is still acting in violation of international and domestic standards, questioning on its authority to exploit natural resources.

“International community and foreign companies should take note of potential repercussions,” added Puntland Information Minister.

On Saturday, Puntland’s outcry intensified, with some MPs claiming that exploration activities were reported in Sool regional districts of Taleh and Hudun.

Member of Parliament Ali Dhega Ade called survey of hydrocarbon fields ‘provocation’.

United Nations monitors have long expressed grave concerns over security threats emanating from western commercial oil exploration companies in northern Somalia.

Tensions have soured in Sool after foreign entities awarded contracts by Somaliland began explorations.

The region is rife with opposing sides as Puntland, Somaliland and self-declared administration of Khaatumo are vying for broader military presence. 

GAROWE ONLINE