Analysis : Washington’s U-turn on Somalia

[Amistad]

Originally posted by NASSIR:

Based on USAID's programs in Somalia and the direct correlation with Corson's press statement, there's hardly a distinction. Contrary to Garowe Online, America won't extend diplomatic relations with both entities..

 

quote:

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Carson said the U.S. would not establish formal diplomatic relations with the two entities or recognize their independence, but would help their governments with

agriculture, water, health and education projects. Diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, will lead the effort and increase their informal visits to Somaliland and Puntland.

AP

 

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GOVERNING JUSTLY AND DEMOCRATICALLY

USAID works with several partners to improve governance at the national, regional, and local levels, and to support key elements of civil society....

 

INVESTING IN PEOPLE

Civil unrest has eroded Somalia’s basic social services. USAID assists local communities by providing integrated

health and education interventions and improving the capacity of governance institutions

to deliver services throughout Somalia.

 

USAID has a higher education partnership with the University of Hargeisa to establish a program in conflict mitigation,

and is also helping Somalia remain polio-free through child vaccinations.....

 

Source: USAID

 

Nassir, its helpful if you speak and read "Diplo speak". Carson said they would send Diplomats and Aid workers to Puntland & Somaliland. You are right, that doesnt mean recognition, (something Puntland isnt even looking for)but they will still engage "Diplomatically". They cant officially engage diplomatically because neither Puntland or Somaliland have any official diplomats. They want to help bolster social, civil, economic and security-counter-terror/pirate programs at the grassroots level(unofficially recognized regions)in both regions.

 

On some levels this shows some disengagement with the TFG when they also say they want to reach out to groups in central and south, something the TFG has been unable to do.

 

This sounds an awful lot like Bronwyn Brutons policy of TFG political dis-engagment latest recommendations to me, and letting differing Somali govts, regional or otherwise, working out their own problems through grassroots level assistance.