Somaliland Nears International Recognition After Talks with U.S. Officials

Somaliland, a self-declared independent state in the Horn of Africa, is moving closer to achieving long-sought international recognition following high-level talks with American political and defense leaders. The region, which broke away from Somalia in 1991, has operated with its own government, security forces, and democratic institutions. While Somalia still claims it as part of its territory, Somaliland has grown increasingly strategic due to its location and political stability.

Recent meetings between Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi and former U.S. President Donald Trump, along with American defense representatives, have brought the issue of recognition into sharper focus. The discussions reportedly centered around deepening U.S.-Somaliland relations, especially concerning military cooperation and access to the Berbera Port, a key Red Sea access point.

The U.S. has traditionally adhered to the “one Somalia” policy, but growing geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa — particularly China’s rising influence in Djibouti — have triggered fresh debates in Washington. The Berbera Port, currently being developed with support from the UAE, offers an alternative to China-controlled maritime routes in the region.

Somaliland argues that formal recognition would unlock greater development aid, trade partnerships, and its ability to contribute to regional peacekeeping and counterterrorism efforts. President Bihi has stated that recognition would not only validate their 30-year record of peace and democracy but also help stabilize the broader region.

While the U.S. State Department has not yet confirmed any policy changes, analysts believe Somaliland could achieve recognition from one or more UN member states in the coming years — potentially starting with the U.S. — setting a major precedent in international diplomacy.