By Horn Africa News
Hargeisa — This week, the Somaliland administration and Taiwan are poised to finalize a historic maritime cooperation agreement, despite mounting pressure and criticism from the governments of China and Somalia.
Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdirahman Dahir Adan, is leading a high-level delegation currently on a five-day official visit to Taipei. During this visit, he is expected to sign the “Maritime Security Cooperation Agreement” with Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Wu Chih-chung.
The agreement will focus on joint efforts to enhance maritime security, combat piracy, and build the capacity of Somaliland’s Coast Guard.
Minister Abdirahman expressed gratitude and praise for Taiwan, describing it as “a trusted and important friend.” He emphasized the shared aspirations between Somaliland and Taiwan, particularly in democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
“Taiwan is a vital friend that Somaliland trusts. We look forward to strengthening the growing friendship between our peoples,” the minister said.
The accord, to be signed under the auspices of Taiwan’s Maritime Affairs Council and Somaliland’s Coast Guard Administration, represents a significant step toward bolstering Somaliland’s coastal defense capabilities, especially along the strategic shores of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
During the visit, the Somaliland delegation—which includes senior officials such as the Minister of Presidential Affairs, the Coast Guard Commander, and the Senior Advisor on Foreign Policy—will meet with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu, and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. A state banquet will also be held in their honor.
Beyond security collaboration, the delegation will engage with the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) to review ongoing development projects and explore future cooperation in education, agriculture, and healthcare.
This visit marks Minister Abdirahman’s first official trip to Taiwan since taking office in December 2024 and highlights the strengthening ties between the two self-governing administrations.
Since the establishment of representative offices in Hargeisa and Taipei in 2020, Taiwan and Somaliland have achieved tangible progress in health, technology, agriculture, and democratic development. Taiwan has invested over $24 million in Somaliland, supporting initiatives such as maternal healthcare, digital identity systems, and electoral processes.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the relationship as “extremely important” and reaffirmed the shared commitment to freedom, democracy, and mutual respect.
“We will continue to work closely with the Somaliland government to improve welfare and prosperity in both countries,” Taiwan’s Ministry stated this week.
However, the growing partnership between Taiwan and Somaliland has drawn sharp criticism from Somalia’s federal government and Beijing. In April 2025, Somalia banned entry to holders of Taiwanese passports, labeling Taiwan’s presence in Hargeysa as a violation of its sovereignty. Taiwan responded by banning Somali passport holders, calling Somalia’s move “politically motivated” and backed by Beijing.
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes Somaliland’s independence, has also increased pressure. In 2022, China abruptly canceled its ambassador’s visit to Hargeisa following public backlash and has since taken various diplomatic measures to curb Taiwan’s influence in the Horn of Africa.
Despite these challenges, Taiwan and Somaliland remain committed to advancing effective cooperation and mutual respect. This week’s agreement marks another significant milestone reflecting their expanding partnership.
