Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas called on US President Donald Trump to formally recognize the independence of Somaliland, describing a critical security and diplomatic partner for the United States.
In a letter dated August 14, Cruz wrote, “Somaliland has emerged as a pivotal partner for the United States in security and diplomacy, contributing to the advancement of our strategic interests in the Horn of Africa and beyond.”
He added, “Somaliland demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening its relations with Washington, and is actively engaged in enhancing military cooperation, combating terrorism, and expanding economic and trade partnerships. To maximize the benefits of American interests, its recognition as an independent state is a necessity.”
Cruz’s call was immediately welcomed by Somaliland’s representative in Washington, Bashir Goth, who told Africa Report, “Somaliland is a steadfast partner of the United States and a first line of defense against growing Chinese influence in the Horn of Africa. The momentum toward closer ties has never been stronger, with growing bipartisan support, including Senator Cruz’s endorsement of our independence.
He added, “President Trump understands America’s interests in our nation, and we believe his renewed vision will open the door to a new, historic chapter in relations between Washington and Hargeisa.”
Historical background
Somaliland was an independent state for a few days in 1960 before voluntarily uniting with Somalia later that same year.
In 1991, it reclaimed its independence from the collapsing Somali state, and has since maintained a degree of stability and democracy in a region plagued by conflict.
Momentum builds in Washington
Cruz’s message comes at a time when Somaliland is receiving increasing attention within US federal institutions. Hargeisa has consistently presented itself to successive US administrations as a counterweight to Chinese influence in East Africa.
The Pentagon is paying particular attention to finding alternatives to Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, the only permanent US base in Africa, which is located next to a Chinese military facility.
Somaliland has entered into talks with the US military regarding the establishment of a military base in the port of Berbera on the Gulf of Aden, and also hosts a Taiwanese representative office in the capital.
Chinese pressure that prompted the Somali government to bar Taiwanese passport holders from entering Somaliland has reinforced calls for a change in US policy toward the Horn region.
In his letter, Cruz wrote, “The Chinese Communist Party is using economic and diplomatic pressure to punish Somaliland for its support for Taiwan and is seeking to undermine that support. Unfortunately, the Somali government has played a negative role in these efforts.”
Potential gains for the Trump administration
Somaliland is trying to woo the new US administration by aligning with its priorities, including offering to host refugees from Gaza in exchange for official recognition and granting Washington access to its vital mineral wealth.
The new commander of US Africa Command, General Dagvin Anderson, also expressed openness to strengthening ties with Somaliland during a Senate hearing last month.
“I think it’s in our best interest to have some level of engagement in that area, whether with the federal government or local entities, and I’ll evaluate that when I’m sure,” General Anderson said.”
Next steps
Although the legal deadline for submitting amendments to this year’s National Defense Authorization Act has passed, lawmakers are expected to continue pushing for recognition of Somaliland when they return from summer recess in September.
In the House of Representatives, Pennsylvania Republican Representative Scott Perry is leading a bill that would give Trump the authority to recognize Somaliland’s independence, and it has received the support of five other Republican representatives.
In the Senate, Senator Cruz could highlight the issue by holding hearings on various African issues, most notably maritime security, where Somaliland could represent a compelling alternative to Djibouti.
Cruz concluded his message: “The partnership between the United States and Somaliland is strong, and it is deepening.”
Africa Report Source.