WASHINGTON, DC- Just last week, Congressman Scott Perry introduced the Republic of Somaliland Independence Act, legislation formally recognizing Somaliland as a separate, independent nation. The bill redirects U.S. foreign policy to align with a new, stable and self-governing partner in a region of increasing strategic importance to the United States.
“For more than three decades, Somaliland demonstrated the kind of governance, stability, and cooperation that America should support,” said Congressman Perry. “Foreign adversaries are on the march in Africa and around the globe, and it’s in our national interest to strengthen relationships with reliable partners who share our values and contribute to our security – whenever and wherever possible.”
Somaliland straddles key global shipping routes located along the Gulf of Aden near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Currently, the government and political system of Somaliland already operates independently of Mogadishu, the unstable, conflict-ridden and fractured capitol city of Somalia. Somalia’s meritless claims over Somaliland hinder the United States’ ability to forge deeper diplomatic ties with Somaliland, a responsible partner nation that maintains internal order, conducts democratic elections, and actively counters piracy and extremism.
“Somaliland has established itself as a stable, democratic, and reliable partner in East Africa. As China expands its influence across the globe, strengthening our alliances with free nations like Somaliland is more important than ever,“ said Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-O5). “I support the people of Somaliland in their pursuit of independence and look forward to building a strong partnership with them as allies.“
“It is a simple fact that Somaliland is a sovereign and self-governing nation separate from Somalia, and U.S. policy should reflect that,“ said Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07).
At a time of intensifying competition with China, Iran, and other hostile actors in the region and around the globe, the United States cannot afford to brush off allies, the Congressman asserted during the introduction of the legislation. This bill ensures, he says, that, “American leadership remains strong in East Africa, and sends a clear signal that the U.S. will stand with responsible partners who uphold stability and sovereignty.”
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