On September 2, 2025, two senior members of the U.S. Congress – Representative Chris Smith, Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), and Representative John Moolenaar, Chairman of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party – addressed a powerful letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
As a son of Somaliland, I read their words with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. This was not just another diplomatic note. It was a recognition of Somaliland’s unique story: a story of resilience, democracy, and untapped potential in a region often defined by conflict and instability.
Their letter captured truths that Somalilanders have long known, but the world has been slow to acknowledge. Allow me to reflect on the key points raised.
Somaliland’s Stability and Security Record
The Congressmen made clear that Somaliland is not Somalia. For over three decades, we have built a functioning democracy where governments are peacefully elected, power is transferred without bloodshed, and institutions are accountable to the people. Unlike Somalia, Somaliland has prevented terrorism, piracy, and smuggling within its borders. Our law enforcement and coast guard protect both our territory and surrounding waters. This is not a boast – it is a fact that stands in stark contrast to the insecurity engulfing our southern neighbor.
For me, this acknowledgment by Congress was powerful. It validated the sacrifices of our people, who have chosen ballots over bullets, order over chaos, and hope over despair.
Strategic Importance at the Red Sea Chokepoint
The letter also highlighted Somaliland’s unique geostrategic position. At the gateway of the Red Sea, where global trade worth trillions passes, Somaliland is an anchor of stability. The Congressmen reminded Secretary Rubio that the 2023 U.S. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) recognized Somaliland as distinct from Somalia’s federal states. For the first time, Congress has now invoked that law to push for stronger U.S.–Somaliland ties. This is historic.
I reflected on what this means: Somaliland is no longer just a local player in the Horn of Africa. We are being recognized as a vital U.S. partner at one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. In a time of global uncertainty, geography and democracy make Somaliland indispensable.
Partnerships that Matter
I was struck by how much emphasis the letter placed on Somaliland’s partnerships. Our cooperation with Taiwan has yielded progress in healthcare, infrastructure, and maritime security. This partnership shows the power of small democracies working together in solidarity. Equally, the letter emphasized Somaliland’s willingness to support the United States in its broader strategic efforts in the Horn of Africa. To see these partnerships recognized in a U.S. congressional letter was deeply affirming. It shows that our friendships are noticed, valued, and respected.
Economic Potential: Minerals and Investment
The Congressmen did not overlook Somaliland’s economic promise. They specifically referenced our critical minerals – lithium and copper – and other untapped resources that are vital for the global energy transition.
They argued, rightly, that a separate U.S. travel advisory would open Somaliland to more visitors, commerce, and investors. By distinguishing us from Somalia’s “Do Not Travel” designation, the U.S. would unlock new opportunities for American companies to engage with Somaliland’s markets.
I reflected on how transformative this could be. With the right investment, our resources could power not only Somaliland’s development but also global industries – all while creating jobs for our youth. The letter even noted that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has expressed willingness to partner with Taiwan to finance mineral and oil projects in Somaliland. That is a future worth fighting for.
The Case for a Separate Travel Advisory
One of the most practical – yet crucial – recommendations in the letter was for the State Department to issue a bifurcated travel advisory. Currently, Somaliland is unfairly lumped together with Somalia under a blanket “Do Not Travel” warning. This deters visitors, businesses, and investors, despite our very different realities. As the Congressmen pointed out, the U.S. already provides region-specific advisories for countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Cameroon. Doing the same and issuing separate travel advisory for the Republic of Somaliland would reflect the truth on the ground.
For me, this is not just a bureaucratic issue – it is about fairness, recognition, and opportunity. Such a step would stimulate development, attract investors, and deepen international engagement with Somaliland.
Countering China’s Malign Influence
The letter also tied Somaliland to the broader geopolitical contest in the Horn of Africa.
- It reminded Washington that China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has its first overseas military base in Djibouti.
- That Iran-backed Houthi rebels use Chinese-made weapons and satellite imagery to attack ships in the Red Sea.
Against this backdrop, Somaliland emerges as a democratic bulwark against authoritarian influence. Our stance alongside Taiwan, our support for the U.S., and our commitment to rule of law make us a natural ally in safeguarding freedom and stability in this region.
My Closing Reflection
As I read the letter from Representatives Smith and Moolenaar, I felt a deep sense of affirmation. For decades, Somalilanders have insisted that we are different – that we are stable, democratic, and ready to partner with the world. Now, senior U.S. lawmakers are saying the same, in writing, to the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, and his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. This is more than symbolism. It is a chance to reshape the future. If the U.S. distinguishes Somaliland in its policies, encourages investment, and deepens cooperation, the benefits will be shared. Somaliland will advance its journey toward recognition and prosperity. The United States will gain a trusted partner at the Red Sea chokepoint – a democracy standing firm against authoritarian expansion.
My reflection is simple: Somaliland has earned its place on the global stage. It is time for the world, led by the United States, to treat us as the partner we already are.
