Geopolitical Prize of the Horn: Why #US recognition of #Somaliland matters

[Deeq A.]

Geopolitical Prize of the Horn: Why #US recognition of #Somaliland matters

In an op-ed analyzing U.S. recognition of Somaliland, Adam Daud Ahmed, a political security analyst in the Horn of Africa, argues that the decision “provides a welcome chance to reshape the geopolitical realities within the Horn of Africa, with enormous strategic, economic, and security benefits.” The piece contends that Somaliland, which “gained independence in 1991,” has maintained “comparative political stability and democratic rule,” unlike #Somalia, which “is still plagued by violence, insecurity, and a weak central government.”

The writer highlights Somaliland’s strategic position, stating, “The strongest argument for United States recognition of Somaliland may be its strategic position at the intersection of vital maritime trade routes.” He describes #Berbera Port as being on the Gulf of Aden with “direct access to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a significant maritime chokepoint that joins the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea.” The article argues that “a Berbera base would offer a forward presence to defend and monitor these vital maritime corridors,” enabling the U.S. to “take a more active role in guaranteeing the free flow of commerce, discouraging adversary powers from menacing them, and enhancing maritime security in one of the most important areas of the globe.”

Beyond security concerns, the op-ed also discusses economic opportunities, stating, “Somaliland is replete with untapped natural resources, which also translates to immense economic opportunities for both Somaliland and the U.S.” Ahmed argues that recognition would place the U.S. “at the head of the line in securing supply chains for critical minerals,” which are essential for technology and defense industries. The article further asserts that “Somaliland recognition would enable the U.S. to offset China’s expanding influence in East Africa” and “forestall China’s monopoly of strategic infrastructure and seaborne trade routes in the region.”

Qaran News