Donald Trump Expected to Back Somaliland Recognition, Former UK Minister Reveals

Ex-Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson hints at upcoming US policy shift toward recognising Somaliland as an independent state.

Sir Gavin Williamson

Donald Trump is reportedly considering formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent country, according to Sir Gavin Williamson, a former UK defence secretary who has engaged in discussions with the president-elect’s team.

Williamson, an advocate for Somaliland’s sovereignty, stated that his conversations with Trump’s advisors were promising, hinting at a potential shift in US foreign policy after Trump assumes office in January. Somaliland, a self-governing territory since 1991, has strong historical ties with the UK but has not yet been widely recognised internationally.

“The meetings went very well, and I am optimistic that the incoming administration will seriously consider the case for Somaliland’s independence,” Williamson said. He also noted Trump’s frustration with policies reversed by his successor, Joe Biden, as a possible motivator to champion Somaliland’s cause.

Somaliland has demonstrated political stability through regular elections, most recently electing opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi with a 53% turnout. This contrasts sharply with Somalia, which continues to grapple with piracy, terrorism, and allegations of ties between militant groups and regional actors like the Houthis.

The potential recognition of Somaliland by the US could increase pressure on other nations, including the UK, to follow suit. While Ethiopia remains the only country to recognise Somaliland diplomatically, its recent agreement for port access in Berbera has added strategic importance to the region.

A UK Foreign Office source commented that Somaliland’s recognition remains contingent on dialogue between Mogadishu and Hargeisa. Meanwhile, Washington insiders suggest growing receptiveness within the State Department, particularly following Trump’s electoral victory.

Observers view Somaliland’s independence as a pivotal issue in US-UK foreign policy, one that could reshape alliances in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.