New Somaliland Leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Affirms Strong Ties with Taiwan

[Deeq A.]

In a significant development for Taiwan’s international relations, Somaliland’s newly elected president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), has pledged to maintain and strengthen the region’s ties with Taiwan. This announcement follows his victory in Somaliland’s presidential election, marking a peaceful transition of power from incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi.

A Strong Foundation of Friendship

Despite Somaliland’s unrecognized status as a breakaway region from Somalia since 1991, the autonomous region has cultivated a unique relationship with Taiwan. Since 2020, Taiwan and Somaliland have exchanged representatives and established offices akin to embassies, fostering collaboration in areas such as public health, agriculture, education, and infrastructure development.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) extended congratulations to Abdullahi, emphasizing optimism for continued cooperation. During his campaign, Abdullahi assured that Somaliland’s relationship with Taiwan would “not change in any way,” reaffirming the commitment despite shifts in leadership.

Key Bilateral Projects

Taiwan and Somaliland’s partnership has already yielded notable progress. Among the flagship initiatives are:

1. The Taiwan Road Project: A $1.85 million venture connecting Hargeisa Airport with the city. Taiwan has pledged to sponsor 70% of the first phase, underscoring its investment in Somaliland’s infrastructure.

2. The Taiwan Medical Center in Hargeisa: Backed by a $22 million grant, the center is set to improve Somaliland’s healthcare capacity. Preparations for both projects are underway, with construction expected to commence as Abdullahi takes office.

Somaliland’s Pursuit of Recognition

Somaliland, which declared independence over three decades ago, continues to seek international recognition. Abdullahi is anticipated to intensify these efforts, possibly looking toward the incoming U.S. administration under Donald Trump for support.

While Somaliland has yet to achieve formal recognition, its partnership with Taiwan highlights a mutually beneficial relationship. However, challenges loom, including potential overtures from China, which might leverage economic incentives to sway Somaliland into recognizing the “One China” policy—a stance firmly rejected by the previous Somaliland administration.

A Leader with a Global Perspective

Abdullahi’s background reflects a blend of international experience and local dedication. A former ambassador to the Soviet Union, Abdullahi fled to Finland during Somalia’s civil war before returning to Somaliland in 2002 to establish a political party. His political career includes serving as Speaker of Somaliland’s House of Representatives (2005–2017) and running for president in 2017. His victory in the 2024 election, with 64% of the vote, marks a new chapter for Somaliland.

A Moderate Approach

Analysts suggest Abdullahi’s administration may adopt a more moderate stance toward Somalia while doubling down on international recognition efforts. This dual strategy could enable Somaliland to balance regional stability with its aspirations for autonomy.

Taiwan’s Commitment to Somaliland

Taiwan remains steadfast in its support of Somaliland. Wang Wen-lin, Director of MOFA’s Asia and Africa Department, reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to bilateral projects and praised Somaliland for successfully holding its presidential election.

While the future holds challenges, Abdullahi’s leadership presents opportunities for deepening Taiwan-Somaliland ties and advancing Somaliland’s quest for global recognition.

With continued collaboration, Taiwan and Somaliland are poised to strengthen their partnership, creating lasting impacts on both regions.

Qaran News