HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – The President of Somaliland has formally nominated U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his recent acknowledgment of the region’s bid for international recognition.
In a speech delivered on Thursday, President Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro, expressed gratitude for Senator Ted Cruz’s support and Representative Scott Perry’s introduction of the Somaliland Recognition Act, both of which have bolstered Somaliland’s aspirations for sovereignty.
“I would like to thank the President of the United States for considering the recognition of the Republic of Somaliland. Today, I hereby declare that, as the President of Somaliland, I join global leaders in nominating President Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize,” the Somaliland leader said.
Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali Democratic Republic.
Since then, it has maintained a separate government, currency, and democratic institutions, operating as a de facto state.
Despite its stability and self-governance, Somaliland’s sovereignty remains unrecognized by the international community.
Recent Developments in U.S. Policy
Last week, U.S President Trump indicated that his administration is “looking into” Somaliland’s case for recognition.
This was after a reporter asked him whether his administration is considering the recognition of Somaliland.
Trump’s statement marks a significant shift from the longstanding U.S. policy of supporting a unified Somalia.
Analysts suggest that the U.S. may be reevaluating its stance to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Djibouti, where the U.S. maintains a strategic military base.
Somaliland’s port of Berbera has also attracted international attention due to its strategic location.
In the United Kingdom, over 20 Members of Parliament have voiced support for Somaliland’s recognition.
Former MP Gavin Williamson has been a prominent advocate, highlighting Somaliland’s democratic elections and stability.
Additionally, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Somaliland has published a report urging the UK government to lead efforts in recognizing Somaliland, emphasizing the historical ties between the UK and the region.
Somaliland’s strategic location along key maritime routes and its relative stability in a region marked by conflict have made it an attractive partner for international powers.
The region’s commitment to democratic governance and development further bolsters its case for recognition.
However, the Somali government in Mogadishu has opposed the recognition of Somaliland saying it ‘amounts partitioning’ of Somalia.