Taiwan’s representative office in Somaliland welcomed US Sen. Ted Cruz’s call for Washington to recognize Somaliland’s independence, framing the move as aligned with US interests and the values shared by Taipei and Hargeisa. In the same statement, the office drew a sharp line with Beijing, saying Taiwan “has never been ruled by the People’s Republic of China” and that “China and Taiwan do not rule over each other.”
Taipei said it has already discussed Somaliland recognition with “like-minded partners and friends” and hopes momentum will build. It cast its ties with Somaliland as a partnership rooted in democracy and mutual benefit, not provocation. Somaliland’s office in Taipei echoed that tone, saying it won’t bow to Chinese pressure and will deepen links with partners such as the United States and Taiwan.
Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of China, quickly rejected Taipei’s remarks and reiterated that the PRC is the “sole legitimate government” representing China. China also opposes Somaliland’s outreach to Taiwan and has pressed countries and institutions to avoid steps that might confer recognition on either.
Cruz, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, recently urged the administration to recognize Somaliland, arguing the self-governing territory is a stable, strategic partner on the Gulf of Aden and a counterweight to growing Chinese influence. The appeal highlights how Somaliland—functioning with its own government, security forces, and elections since 1991—has moved higher on Washington’s radar even as the US still recognizes Somalia’s sovereignty.
The latest statements underscore a widening diplomatic triangle: Beijing seeks to deter any move that strengthens Taiwan’s international footprint; Somaliland pursues broader recognition and diversified partnerships; and US lawmakers test whether formal recognition of Somaliland would serve American interests. For now, Taipei and Hargeisa are signaling they intend to keep building ties—despite the pushback.
