Mr. Hussein Mussa
Henry Kissinger, the architect of détente and author of Diplomacy, emphasized that foreign policy must be anchored in realism. He famously wrote, “America has no permanent friends or enemies, only interests.”
In The Prince, Machiavelli argued that leaders must be both lion and fox strong and shrewd. As global dynamics shift rapidly, particularly in the Middle East, it is essential to analyze recent developments that have implications for Somaliland’s diplomatic strategy. These include U.S.
President Donald Trump’s trip to the Gulf region, his recalibrated approach to Middle Eastern diplomacy, and the recent activities of Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, H.E. Abdirahman Dahir Adam, who is currently in Washington to meet with members of the Senate and House of Representatives.
In a revealing interview with The National, a news outlet owned by the Abu Dhabi government, former U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan shared insights into President Trump’s diplomatic approach. According to Sullivan, Trump stated, “I am not entering the Middle East through Israel but rather through the Gulf countries.” Trump emphasized that he views Gulf leaders as genuine partners in peace and expressed skepticism about Israel’s role in advancing regional stability.
This statement marked a significant departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy and signaled a broader transformation in how America engages with the region. For Somaliland, this evolving doctrine presents a valuable opportunity. Foreign policy is no longer guided solely by the UN Charter or African Union consensus. Instead, national interest, geo-politics, geo-economy, and geo-strategy now shape international relations. This shift creates space for emerging states to engage directly and persuasively with U.S. decision makers.
This is precisely what H.E. Abdirahman Dahir Adam has begun to do. The new Foreign Minister launched a high-level diplomatic mission to Washington, D.C., aimed at deepening Somaliland’s engagement with influential U.S. lawmakers. His outreach coincided with broader shifts in American Middle East policy and ongoing discussions about alternative frameworks for regional cooperation and security.
During his visit, Minister Abdirahman met with several key congressional figures, including:
• Rep. Ronny Jackson
• Rep. John Moolenaar
• Rep. Scott Perry, a longtime advocate for Somaliland and sponsor of the Republic of
Somaliland Recognition Act
• Senator Ted Cruz, a high-profile lawmaker and former presidential candidate
• Rep. Tim Burchett, Vice Chair of the House Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa
These meetings are not only timely but also strategically important. They take place as the U.S.
reevaluates its approach to the Middle East, favoring partnerships with Gulf states over more
traditional allies such as Israel. Trump’s statement to Israeli leaders, indicating a preference for
working with the Gulf countries, and his administration’s recognition of Syria’s transitional
government reflect a willingness to break from conventional diplomatic pathways.
From Somaliland’s perspective, this changing global context presents a critical opportunity to
redefine its role in U.S. regional strategy. While Somalia continues to grapple with insecurity,
terrorism, and institutional collapse despite receiving billions in international aid, Somaliland
remains a stable, democratic, and peaceful country. The contrast is stark: Mogadishu is under
siege by Al Shabaab, while Hargeisa serves as a center of governance and order.
This is an opportunity for the administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, known as
“Ciro,” to seize. Stronger and more consistent engagement with the U.S. government is essential.
One of the previous key weaknesses in Somaliland’s diplomacy in recent years has been the
lack of continuity in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During former President Muse Bihi and
President Silaanyo terms, multiple individuals held the Foreign Minister position, which
sometimes disrupted how the international community communicated with the foreign office. It
takes time for countries to engage with a new minister, especially since Somaliland does not
have a permanent secretary in the foreign office. This inconsistency hindered the ability to build
long term relationships and deliver sustained results. Like neighboring Djibouti, Somaliland needs
a dedicated Foreign Minister who serves a full term to institutionalize diplomatic momentum and
strengthen the ministry’s capacity.
Recognition of Somaliland is no longer an abstract dream; it is a strategic necessity grounded in
historical legitimacy, regional stability, and practical security benefits. Minister Abdirahman Dahir
Adam, known for his charm, prudence, and sense of humor, qualities vital in diplomacy, has already
begun laying the foundation for a more effective and enduring relationship with American
policymakers.
In a world where agility and timing are everything, Somaliland is well positioned to make
meaningful progress in its quest for international recognition provided it continues to engage with
clarity, strategy, and consistency in the world’s most influential capitals. It is also important for the
foreign minister to travel and engage actively with the global community.
Strategic Insights from the Masters of Statecraft
Henry Kissinger: Diplomacy Rooted in National Interest Henry Kissinger, the architect of détente and author of Diplomacy, emphasized that foreign policy
must be anchored in realism. He famously wrote, “America has no permanent friends or enemies,
only interests.”
For Somaliland, this means recognition will not come by appealing solely to sympathy or history. It must convince the world, especially the United States, Gulf powers, India, Japan, and the African Union, that its stability, democratic governance, and geographic position serve their core interests in trade, counterterrorism, and maritime security. Somaliland must present itself as a vital node in the Red Sea corridor and an indispensable ally for those seeking regional balance.
As we all know, not a single piracy incident has happened in the waters off Somaliland, unlike Somalia, where the International Maritime Organization records piracy incidents every month and sometimes every week.
Niccolò Machiavelli: Power, Image, and Strategic Boldness
In The Prince, Machiavelli argued that leaders must be both lion and fox strong and shrewd. For Somaliland, perception is as powerful as reality. The world must see it not as a breakaway region of Somalia, but as a functioning democracy with a proven record of governance and peace. It was a former British protectorate that gained independence in June 1960, formed an unratified union with Somalia, and then reclaimed its independence in 1991.
Machiavelli also taught that opportunity must be seized with courage. Somaliland must take the Initiative in shaping its international image. It should host conferences, engage think tanks, launch digital diplomacy, and spotlight its success stories. Strategic communication is essential to shift international attitudes.
Otto von Bismarck : Realism and the Art of Timing
Otto von Bismarck was the first Chancellor of the German Empire from 1871 to 1890. He is famous for his skillful use of diplomacy and realpolitik (practical politics): Bismarck unified Germany through patience, alliances, and mastery of realpolitik. He famously said, “Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable, the art of the next best.”
Somaliland must adopt a similar mindset. Recognition will likely come in stages. Gaining support from a few key states such as Lativia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Israel, Taiwan, or the United Arab Emirates could trigger a domino effect. Bilateral recognition by smaller or mid-sized powers can create momentum that larger institutions may eventually follow.
Lord Palmerston: Flexible Alliances for Eternal Interests
The legendary British foreign secretary once said, “We have no eternal allies, and we have no perpetual enemies. Our interests are eternal and perpetual, and those interests it is our duty to follow.”
Somaliland must avoid aligning too rigidly with any single power. Instead, it should build flexible and dynamic partnerships based on mutual benefit. Its foreign policy should be guided by national interest, not by ideology or historical grievance. Somaliland must remain open to cooperation with diverse players from Gulf countries and the United States to India, Japan, and the African countries Strengthening Somaliland’s Diplomatic Machinery to succeed internationally, Somaliland must build institutional strength at home. One of the main
weaknesses in recent years has been the frequent reshuffles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the tenures of Presidents Muse Bihi and Silaanyo, several foreign ministers were appointed,
undermining continuity and strategic planning.
Somaliland must professionalize its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This requires:
• Retaining the current foreign minister for a full term
• Building a skilled diplomatic corps trained in international law, negotiation, and media
relations
• Ensuring consistent messaging across all levels of government
• Establishing long term bilateral task forces with key partner countries.
A state that aspires to recognition must act like a recognized state in every way.
Recognition is Achieved Through Strategy, Not Sentiment Somaliland’s recognition is no longer an abstract dream. It is a plausible outcome, if pursued with strategic clarity, diplomatic consistency, and historical wisdom.
Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adam’s diplomatic outreach in Washington represents a promising new
direction. His intellect and measured style offer the potential for deeper engagement with global
powers. However, Somaliland must go further. It must think like Kissinger, act with the cunning of
Machiavelli, maneuver with the patience of Bismarck, and build partnerships in the spirit of
Palmerston.
In a world where perception, timing, and national interest guide global affairs, Somaliland must rise
to the occasion. The moment is now.
Mr. Hussein Mussa
Senior Geopolitical Analys