Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Chris Van Hollen (D-Md. ), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), chairman and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, introduced the Somaliland Partnership Act today, which would require the Department of State to report to Congress on its engagement with Somaliland, as well as conduct a feasibility study, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, regarding
“The US remains a faithful ally of the Somali people and government,” Risch added, “but the Biden Administration has constrained itself to the boundaries of a’single Somalia’ strategy at the expense of other democratic players in the nation.” “In this difficult time in global affairs and for the Horn of Africa, the US should explore all possible mutually beneficial relationships with stable and democratic partners, such as Somaliland, rather than limiting ourselves to outdated policy approaches and diplomatic frameworks that don’t meet today’s challenges.”
“As the Horn of Africa faces more destabilizing currents, strengthening our ties with individuals in the area who respect democratic government and basic freedoms is critical to promoting US interests, ensuring regional peace, and bolstering the rule of law and human rights.” In the middle of a sea of violence, Somaliland has shown to be a stable, vibrant democracy for decades. As a result, expanding U.S. engagement prospects with Somaliland makes sense. “Our bill will guarantee that the US explores the full potential of this mutually beneficial partnership,” Van Hollen added.
Prior to the formation of the Somali Republic, Somaliland gained independence from the United Kingdom on June 26, 1960, and has been a self-declared autonomous and sovereign state since 1991.
Somaliland is a semi-autonomous territory of Somalia’s Federal Republic. President Musa Bihi Abdi is leading a Somaliland team to Washington this week to meet with members of Congress, Biden Administration officials, and the business sector.
Risch sponsored an NDAA amendment last year that called for a study on the viability of forming a security and defense collaboration with Somaliland, which was adopted and expanded upon in this measure.