In a heartening development for U.S.-Somaliland relations, Ambassador Bashir Goth, Somaliland’s esteemed representative in Washington, D.C., has thrown his full support behind Senator Ted Cruz’s recent call for the United States to recognize Somaliland as an independent state.
In a statement, Goth praised Cruz’s outreach to President Donald Trump, signaling a potential new chapter of partnership between the two nations.
“I applaud @SenTedCruz’s courageous leadership and his outreach to @realDonaldTrump,” Goth wrote. “This is a historic opportunity for Somaliland, a beacon of stability, to join hands with the U.S. With our strategic Red Sea access and rich mineral resources, we can build a future of prosperity together. Thank you, Senator, for championing our cause.
The announcement follows Cruz’s statement on Thursday, August 14, 2025, urging the Trump administration to grant Somaliland recognition, citing its 30-year track record of democratic governance and military cooperation against terrorism—achievements lauded in a 2021 Journal of African Studies report. Z
Ambassador Goth’s endorsement highlights Somaliland’s unique value to the United States. Its 850-kilometer coastline along the Gulf of Aden offers a critical maritime chokepoint, while its untapped lithium deposits promise to fuel technological innovation, as noted in a recent India Today analysis (August 14, 2025).
Goth emphasized these assets in a follow-up interview with VOA Somali, saying, “Our stability and resources can strengthen U.S. leadership in the Horn of Africa, fostering peace and economic growth for both our peoples.” The timing couldn’t be more auspicious.
With China’s economic influence in the nation under scrutiny—following reports of coercion against Somaliland for its support of Taiwan (Council on Foreign Relations, 2023)—Goth’s statement positions this recognition as a win-win alliance.
“This is not just about Somaliland; it’s about building a democratic partnership to counter challenges and create opportunities,” he added.
Goth’s diplomatic efforts, bolstered by his years of advocacy since 2018 (Washington Diplomat, June 6, 2024), have paved the way for this moment. His meetings with U.S. officials and push for the “Somaliland Partnership Act” (Somaliland Standard, December 27, 2022) have built a foundation of trust, now poised to flourish under renewed attention.
Ambassador Goth concluded, “This is a celebration of shared values—democracy, security, and progress. With Senator Cruz and President Trump’s support, we can write a story of success together.” As the world watches, this budding alliance promises to shine as a model of international collaboration.