MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – The United States has denied reports that it is in talks with Somaliland regarding the potential recognition of the self-declared republic, reaffirming its support for the territorial integrity of Somalia.
Responding to speculation following recent comments by President Donald Trump and Senator Ted Cruz, a spokesperson for the US State Department told Fox News: “The United States recognizes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, which includes the territory of Somaliland. The State Department is not in active discussions with Somaliland’s representatives about a deal to recognize Somaliland as a state.”
The remarks come after President Trump appeared to suggest a possible shift in US policy. Asked whether he would recognize Somaliland, Trump said: “we’re looking into that right now,” sparking speculation that Washington might consider altering its longstanding position.
Senator Ted Cruz, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa, followed up with an open letter urging the Trump administration to formally recognize Somaliland, citing the region’s security cooperation with the US and its strategic distancing from China.
“There is a very real opportunity that President Trump will recognize Somaliland during this administration,” Cruz told Fox News Digital. “President Trump is bringing a new era of clarity in American national security, after four years of the Biden administration rewarding our enemies and punishing our allies, and recognizing Somaliland should be part of this new era.
“Somaliland has been a reliable ally to the United States, is integrating itself with us and our allies globally, and is committed to helping us counter efforts by China to undermine the safety and prosperity of Americans,” he added.
Despite the State Department’s clear denial of any active negotiations, Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Abdullahi Irro remains confident.
Speaking to the Guardian on 30 May, he said: “Recognition is on the horizon.” He added: “It’s a matter of time. Not if, but when.”
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has repeatedly offered strategic incentives to Washington – including access to rare earth minerals and a potential US military base – in exchange for diplomatic recognition. However, the US has consistently upheld a “One Somalia” policy, maintaining formal ties only with the Federal Government of Somalia in Mogadishu.
While the international community has largely refrained from recognizing Somaliland, the region has maintained de facto autonomy for more than three decades, complete with its own government, currency, and security apparatus.
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