By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin
Recently, the President of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi “Ciro “, achieved a historic milestone by attending the World Government Summit in Dubai, where he received a distinguished presidential welcome. This event marks a crucial step in Somaliland’s enduring pursuit of international recognition. This diplomatic engagement not only elevates Somaliland’s profile globally but also highlights its ongoing efforts to turn long-focused aspirations for acknowledgment into concrete international backing.
Participation in the summit has enhanced Somaliland’s visibility and provided an opportunity to directly connect with countries and international bodies that may have previously neglected its political context. The gathering has increased global awareness regarding Somaliland’s stability, democratic governance, and economic possibilities, thereby reinforcing its narrative of self-rule, democratic credentials and sovereignty. Such visibility is vital for a region that, despite its established governance structures and peaceful electoral processes, remains unrecognized internationally.
The warm reception from the United Arab Emirates, along with the involvement of DP World—a prominent international port operator with significant investments in Somaliland’s strategic Berbera Port—demonstrates the strengthening diplomatic and economic links between the two parties. These relationships could enhance Somaliland’s standing in the eyes of other nations, potentially leading to greater support from global powers. The UAE’s acceptance of Somaliland is part of a broader regional strategy that combines economic interests with a commitment to fostering stability in the volatile Horn of Africa region.
However, President Ciro, is well aware of the regional dynamics which add complexity to the situation. Somaliland’s long-standing positive relations with Ethiopia, contribute another layer of intricacy and the president confirmed that the MOU agreement with Ethiopia will be finalized by the end of this year despite the recent Ankara Agreement mediated by Turkey between Ethiopia and Somalia. Continued interactions among Somaliland, Ethiopia, and the UAE would definitely encourage other countries to reconsider Somaliland’s bid for recognition, based on its stability which is advantageous for regional security and trade.
Nonetheless, Somaliland’s diplomatic progress unfolds amidst Somalia’s ongoing claims of “sovereignty”. Mogadishu regards these diplomatic endeavors as threats to its “territorial integrity” but by now it is too weak and schizophrenic. It should by now, realize its attempts to respond with continued resistance is nothing more than an exercise in Einstein’s definition of insanity.
Asked about any future prospects for international recognition, President Ciro said he believes that the Trump Administration will likely be the first to do so. Whatever the case, President Ciro, a seasoned diplomat, knows well how to maneuver carefully over the intricate geopolitical chess-games involved, where any possibility of formal recognition must be approached cautiously in light of enduring regional power plays and conflicts.
With President Ciro’s leadership, so far, Somaliland has managed to continue leveraging its burgeoning relationships with increased diplomatic visibility which it now possesses, paving the way for formal recognition soon, irregardless of Hassan Sheikh’s illusion of “territorial integrity, sovereignty, One Somalia policy and Somali Unity,” a foregone illusive dream. Despite such distractions, designed to deflect Somalia’s status in the world as a failed state, the successful participation in the summit has already instilled a sense of national pride among Somaliland’s populace, reinforcing their belief in their government’s narrative of self-governance and the validity of their quest for recognition.