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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.

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According to sources within the Somaliland presidency, President Irro is seeking a “first-hand discussion” with PM Abiy on the MoU signed on 1 January 2024 between Ethiopia and Somaliland.

The agreement, signed under former President Muse Bihi Abdi, granted Ethiopia a 50-year lease on a stretch of Somaliland’s coastline on the Gulf of Aden in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence — a move that triggered strong opposition from Somalia’s federal government in Mogadishu.

“President Irro is committed to securing Somaliland’s full international recognition — nothing less than that,” an aide to the president, who requested anonymity, told our reporter. “He wants clarity and direct engagement with the Ethiopian leadership before moving forward.”

The MoU, which remains pending implementation, has been a central focus of Irro’s early diplomatic efforts since taking office.

Last month, during a visit to neighbouring Djibouti, Irro held discussions with Ethiopian diplomats led by Kebede Abera Ido, Ethiopia’s Deputy Ambassador to Djibouti.

Their talks covered regional security, Red Sea maritime access, trade corridors, and investment opportunities.

“The President discussed with the Ambassadors the development of the region’s economy, investment opportunities, trade facilitation, infrastructure, and increased humanitarian aid,” said Hussein Aden Ige, spokesperson for the Somaliland presidency, in a May statement.

Deputy Ambassador Kebede confirmed Ethiopia’s interest in deepening cooperation with Somaliland, particularly in areas of trade and security.

Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, has long sought alternative routes for sea access to enhance its import and export capabilities.

In a sign of intensifying international outreach, President Irro also met with foreign diplomats in Nairobi last week, where he reiterated Somaliland’s longstanding call for international recognition.

“We have not come to Nairobi today with a begging bowl,” Irro told the gathering. “We are not looking for handouts. We are here to build genuine partnerships with governments, investors, and institutions that understand the value of mutual benefit.”

Among many Somalilanders, hopes remain high that Ethiopia’s engagement could be a breakthrough toward international recognition, a goal that has eluded the self-declared republic since its separation from Somalia in 1991.

Irro’s administration appears determined to capitalise on this momentum, even amid diplomatic tensions with Mogadishu.

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