MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar Ali, held a diplomatic meeting this week with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, for the recognition of the self-declared Republic of Somaliland.
During the meeting, held in Washington, D.C., Minister Balcad expressed appreciation for the dialogue, reaffirming Somalia’s strategic importance in the fight against terrorism and in maintaining security across the Horn of Africa.
“Somalia plays a vital role in the global effort to combat terrorism, particularly in curbing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab. Continued support from our international partners, especially the United States, is essential to securing our coastline and ensuring safe navigation through the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea,” said Minister Balcad.
He emphasized Somalia’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with the United States, urging both countries to strengthen cooperation for regional peace and economic development. “Let us reinforce our collaboration so that Somalia can emerge as a stable and prosperous nation,” he added.
When asked about whether the issue of Somaliland was discussed during the talks, Minister Balcad declined to comment, neither confirming nor denying if the topic was raised.
Senator Cruz, a long-time critic of U.S. foreign policy in the Horn of Africa, has been actively advocating for American recognition of Somaliland.
In recent months, he has urged former U.S. President Donald Trump and current policymakers to formally acknowledge Somaliland’s de facto independence, citing its relative stability, democratic elections, and strategic geographical location.
Cruz has argued that Somaliland could become a vital security ally to the United States, especially if it were to host a U.S. military installation near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a critical chokepoint for global maritime trade.
In his campaign for recognition, Senator Cruz has also accused China of influencing Mogadishu’s stance on Somaliland, pointing to Somalia’s restrictions on travelers holding Taiwanese passports as an example of alignment with Beijing’s interests.
Despite such advocacy, the official U.S. policy remains unchanged. Washington continues to support the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, in line with the position held by the African Union.
Although the U.S. maintains informal cooperation with Somaliland on security and development matters, it has not granted diplomatic recognition.
The recent meeting between Minister Balcad and Senator Cruz is a rare but notable moment of engagement, suggesting that while political divisions remain, there is space for dialogue.
It also highlights the complex dynamics at play in U.S.-Horn of Africa relations, where strategic interests, regional stability, and international diplomacy converge.