The Government of the Republic of Somaliland welcomes President Trump’s acknowledgement of Somaliland as a distinct country.
We look forward to deepening engagement with his Administration on shared interests in regional peace, security, and trade.
https://t.co/IhYNqerCL7
Al Jazeera confirms Somalia’s e-visa site remains exposed, data containing passport details and dates of birth can still be accessed. This is a gift to fraudsters and Al-Shabaab.
After an earlier breach affecting tens of thousands of travellers, keeping the platform online and continuing to collect identity and payment data is reckless and potentially criminal.
Premier Bank has confirmed to me that it is the acquiring bank for ETS, a private merchant owned by the president’s family that manages the platform and collects funds. Acquirers don’t “just process payments”, they approve merchants, assume risk and are responsible for security and compliance controls.
Visa and Mastercard should suspend processing immediately. I also stand by what I’ve already said: Premier Bank customers in Somalia, Somaliland and Kenya should withdraw their funds until the bank exits this corrupt and fraudulent operation.
https://t.co/GVWhyJA04y
Will the world welcome a 194th sovereign state?
When rumours started that Trump might recognise Somaliland, Stefan Tompson travelled to the Horn of Africa.
In this episode, V24's founder looks into the case for statehood for this unrecognised and broadly unknown country.
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A democracy in East Africa, a key player in trade, and a nation with strong global ties—Somaliland is making its case for international recognition.
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@AnalystSomalia @MariamRobly I grew up in Somaliland and have never been to Somalia, yet I’m surprised to see people like you spreading misinformation. Where did Ethiopia ever withdraw from the MoU? The US Congress and others with @MariamRobly, @mary_harper are seeing the truth. Stop li, and grew up.
Introduction
Recognizing Somaliland as an independent state could offer several strategic benefits for the United States:
Geopolitical Advantages
Countering Chinese Influence
Recognition would allow the U.S. to build a partnership with Somaliland, providing a hedge against China’s growing influence in the region, particularly in Djibouti.
Somaliland has demonstrated willingness to defy Beijing, as evidenced by its diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Strategic Location
Somaliland’s position along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden offers significant strategic value for U.S. interests.
The Berbera Port and airfield could provide new military basing opportunities for the U.S., enhancing its ability to project power and conduct operations in the region.
Regional Security
Counterterrorism Partner
Somaliland has maintained relative stability and avoided the terrorism and piracy issues plaguing Somalia, making it a potential valuable ally in regional security efforts.
Recognition could strengthen Somaliland’s capacity to combat extremism and piracy in the Red Sea region.
Maritime Security
Somaliland’s strategic location could help ensure freedom of navigation in crucial maritime routes, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Diplomatic Gains
Support for Democracy
Recognizing Somaliland would affirm U.S. support for democracy by rewarding the territory’s 30-year-old homegrown democratic efforts.
It could serve as a model for other countries in the region, demonstrating the benefits of democratic governance.
Taiwan Relations
An independent Somaliland could provide Taiwan with another diplomatic ally, indirectly supporting U.S. interests in the Taiwan-China dynamic.
Economic Opportunities
Trade and Investment
Recognition would enable Somaliland to access international financial institutions and attract foreign investment, potentially opening new economic opportunities for U.S. businesses.
Somaliland’s modernized Berbera Port could become a significant regional trade hub.
Strategic Flexibility
Diversification from Djibouti
Recognition would allow the U.S. to diversify its regional presence away from Djibouti, where Chinese influence has been growing.
This could provide the U.S. with more options and leverage in the strategically important Horn of Africa region.
Conclusion
Recognizing Somaliland could enhance U.S. strategic positioning in the Horn of Africa, provide a new partner in counterterrorism and regional security efforts, support democratic values, and open new economic opportunities.
However, this decision would need to be carefully weighed against potential diplomatic and regional stability risks.