Sen. Cruz Calls for U.S. Recognition of Somaliland

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, sent a letter to President Trump urging the administration to formally recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent state.

Excerpts and highlights from the letter: 

“Somaliland has emerged as a critical security and diplomatic partner for the United States, helping America advance our national security interests in the Horn of Africa and beyond. It is strategically located along the Gulf of Aden, putting it near one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors. It possesses capable armed forces and contributes to regional counterterrorism and piracy operations. It has enabled the opening of a Taiwanese Representative Office in the capital of Hargeisa, sought to strengthen ties with Israel, and voiced support for the Abraham Accords…

“Somaliland faces mounting pressure from adversaries, due in no small part to its role as a partner for the United States and our allies. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is using economic and diplomatic coercion to punish Somaliland for its support for Taiwan, as well as to undermine that support...

“Despite these threats, Somaliland remains committed to forging closer ties with the U.S., and is actively engaged in enhancing military cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and economy and trade partnerships. To do so to the greatest effect, and the greatest benefit to American national security interests, it requires the status of a state. I urge you to grant it that recognition.”

Click here to read the full letter.