International representatives to Somalia on Friday called on warring sides in the country’s north to withdraw their forces from the disputed town of Saaxdheer and resolve differences through peaceful means, Xinhua news agency reported.

In a joint statement, US special representative for Somalia James McAnulty, UN envoy to Somalia Nicholas Kay and European Union ambassador Michele Cervone d’Urso expressed concern over the conflict between forces of the self-proclaimed republic of Somaliland and newly-formed regional state of Khaatumo.

Residents in southern regions of Somaliland elected Ali Khalif Galeyr, a Somali member of parliament as head of Khaatuom State which includes Sool, Sanaag and Ayn regions in the north.

On Thursday, forces from Somaliland clashed with local militias after attacking local Khaatumo authorities while they were making preparations for the inauguration ceremony of the new leader in Saaxdheer town.

“We call for the immediate withdrawal of forces from Saaxdheer and the immediate release of all prisoners. We urge all parties to make concerted efforts to de-escalate and resolve differences through peaceful means and dialogue,” said the joint statement.

Somaliland objects to the formation of the regional state in areas it claims as part of its territory.

The region has been seeking a cessation from the rest of Somalia since 1991.

Talks between Somali leaders and local officials have been continuing under the mediation of the Turkish government for the past two years.

Written By- BERNAMA