Amid increasing U.S. support for Somaliland’s recognition, China reaffirms its backing for Somalia through envoy Xue Bing’s visit. The diplomatic tension arises following Somaliland’s presidential inauguration attended by Taiwanese officials, which provoked a strong response from Beijing.
China’s special envoy for the Horn of Africa, Xue Bing, recently visited Somalia to reaffirm Beijing’s support for the nation amid increasing calls from U.S. Republicans for recognition of Somaliland. During his meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Xue emphasized China’s commitment to Somalia’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity. This visit follows the inauguration of Somaliland’s new president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, who has remained unrecognized by the international community since declaring independence in 1991. The geopolitical tensions are further complicated by Taiwan’s involvement in Somaliland’s political landscape, prompting protests from Beijing.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has yet to gain recognition from any country. The region continues to be viewed as part of Somalia by the central government in Mogadishu. Recently, the geopolitical dynamics shifted when U.S. officials expressed support for Somaliland’s recognition, coinciding with Taiwan’s deputy foreign minister attending the new Somaliland president’s inauguration—an act that sparked diplomatic tensions between China and both Somaliland and Taiwan. China’s position is rooted in its claim over Taiwan and its opposition to any formal ties between Taiwanese entities and regions like Somaliland.
The situation surrounding Somaliland’s quest for independence highlights the intricate interplay of regional politics in the Horn of Africa, particularly as global powers like the United States and China assert their influence. The outcome of these diplomatic maneuvers will have significant implications for the stability and political future of both Somalia and Somaliland, as well as broader international relations in the region.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
