US Considers Recognizing Somaliland Amid Growing China and Russian Interests in Horn of Africa

Washington D.C. - The United States is exploring the possibility of recognizing Somaliland as an independent nation, a move that has sparked concerns among Somalia's government and international community.

The consideration comes at a time when the US is already engaged in a geostrategic game in the Horn of Africa, with growing competition from China and Russia for influence and control over key infrastructure projects and military bases.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, but its status as a sovereign state has not been recognized by the international community. However, proponents argue that it shares several converging US interests in the region, including economic, military, and strategic interests.

The Republican-backed Project 2025, which was recently presented to Trump officials, presents Somaliland as a good business case, aiming to appeal to Trump's deal-making approach. The proposal suggests that recognition would "reward" Somaliland for adhering to democratic principles, having a small government, and not relying on foreign aid.

Supporters of Somaliland independence argue that it is located at the site of several US interests, including the region's strategic location along the Red Sea shipping lanes, which could become increasingly important as tensions rise with China. They also point to the territory's potential for military cooperation and security enhancement.

The initiative has been backed by senior Africa officials under Trump, including the former Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs and Africa envoy. Abdirahman Dahir Adan, Somaliland's Foreign Minister, welcomed the consideration, saying his government would be willing to consider a "good deal" that benefits both sides.

The proposed recognition has also sparked concerns among Somalia's government, which views it as an attempt to undermine its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Somali government sees itself as the rightful owner of Somaliland's territory and argues that any attempts to break away from the country without its consent would be illegitimate.

It is unclear whether Trump will ultimately decide to recognize Somaliland as an independent nation, but experts say that it could have significant implications for US policy towards Somalia and Somaliland.

"The Horn of Africa needs to be braced for change," says academic Ken Menkhaus. "Mr. Trump has a deep suspicion of foreign aid, is sceptical about state-building and is a neo-isolationist."