Somaliland’s Diplomatic Stalemate: A Time for Bold Action

[Deeq A.]

For decades, Somaliland has sought international recognition, yet its diplomatic efforts remain stagnant. The issue is not Somaliland’s legitimacy—it is a failure of strategic foreign policy. Without a decisive reset, the dream of sovereignty will remain elusive.

A Diplomatic Shake-Up Is Urgent

Somaliland’s current diplomatic leadership has failed to deliver results. Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan, Washington DC Ambassador Bashir Goth, Taiwan Representative Mahmoud Adam Jama Galaal, and the ambassadors to Ethiopia, UAE, and Kenya must be replaced. Galaal’s alignment with China jeopardizes Somaliland’s ties with Taiwan, while others have obstructed the landmark Ethiopia-Somaliland MOU—a deal crucial for economic and geopolitical leverage. A new diplomatic corps is needed—one that will actively champion Somaliland’s sovereignty on the global stage.

End Fruitless Talks with Somalia, Build Stronger Alliances

Somaliland must abandon the illusion that negotiations with Somalia’s federal government will lead to recognition. These discussions have only delayed progress. Instead, Somaliland should:

• Sever political engagement with Mogadishu and counter Djibouti’s interference.

• Strengthen its global standing by formalizing relations with Israel, starting with an ambassador in Jerusalem.

• Redefine its U.S. strategy with a new, proactive Washington DC envoy.

• Fast-track the Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement for regional economic and security gains.

A Role in the Middle East’s Future?

Somaliland has a chance to play a decisive role in global diplomacy. The Trump administration’s Gaza relocation proposal offers a strategic opening. Somaliland’s government has already expressed willingness to discuss resettling Gaza refugees—but only under the condition that the U.S., U.K., Israel, the Gulf States, Egypt, Jordan, and India formally recognize Somaliland. This could be the leverage Somaliland needs to finally gain a seat at the international table.

The Path Forward

Somaliland must act with urgency:

• Overhaul its diplomatic leadership with a team committed to sovereignty.

• Abandon dead-end talks with Somalia and reinforce ties with Ethiopia.

• Align with the Trump administration’s Gaza plan to open doors to recognition.

• Deepen partnerships with Israel and the West to counter regional threats.

Recognition will not come through passive diplomacy. Somaliland must seize this moment, make bold choices, and assert its rightful place in the global order.

By Geopolitics Africa TV | Opinion

Qaran News