Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London, (Horn News Hub).
U.S. Congress Committee Highlights Somaliland’s Strategic Role in Countering China in Horn of Africa
The U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party has commended Somaliland for resisting Beijing’s influence in the Horn of Africa, describing the self-declared republic as a potential pillar of U.S. strategy in the region.
In a recent briefing, the committee emphasized that Somaliland’s refusal to bow to China’s pressure particularly over its ties with Taiwan positions it as a valuable partner for advancing U.S. security and diplomatic objectives. Beijing, which backs Somalia’s federal government both diplomatically and economically, has repeatedly urged Hargeisa to cut ties with Taipei. Instead, Somaliland has deepened its relationship with Taiwan, opening reciprocal representative offices in 2020.
Trump and Lawmakers Signal Support
The question of Somaliland reached the White House this week when President Donald Trump was asked about Washington’s position during a press conference with the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia. “We’re looking into that right now,” Trump said. “Good question, actually, and another complex one, but we’re working on that right now Somaliland.”
Members of Congress have also voiced support for stronger engagement. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has publicly urged the Trump administration to consider recognition, while Select Committee leaders John Moolenaar (R-MI) and Chris Smith (R-NJ) have called on the State Department to “distinguish Somaliland” in its Africa policy.
Strategic Location and Regional Stakes
Analysts highlight Somaliland’s geography as a driving factor in Washington’s growing interest. Situated along the Gulf of Aden and bordering the Bab el-Mandeb Strait a maritime chokepoint through which up to 10 percent of global trade passes Somaliland occupies a critical position for controlling access between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. U.S. engagement with Hargeisa, experts argue, could strengthen America’s ability to secure these trade routes and counter China’s expanding presence in East Africa.
A Record of Stability
Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has built a reputation for relative stability, democratic governance, and local development achievements that contrast sharply with the turmoil in neighboring Somalia. For U.S. lawmakers, these gains reinforce Somaliland’s image as a reliable and strategically valuable partner in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
