U.S. Lawmaker Links Somaliland Recognition to Countering China in Horn of Africa

Horn post staff January 6, 2026

PRC Foreign Minister’s upcoming visit to Mogadishu raises additional concerns

WASHINGTON, Jan 6, 2026 (Horn Post) – Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee and Co-Chair of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, expressed support for Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent, sovereign state.

In a statement, Rep. Smith praised Somaliland as a functioning democracy and cited its recent peaceful transfer of power following elections as a positive example in the Horn of Africa.

“I welcome Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent, sovereign state, and hope that others, including the United States, follow,” he said.

Rep. Smith also emphasized Somaliland’s geostrategic significance, noting the deep-water port at Berbera and its role in regional security. He highlighted the territory’s close ties with Taiwan as a counterbalance to China’s influence in the region, pointing to the upcoming visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to neighboring Mogadishu.

“Official recognition signals to the Somaliland people that their commitment to democracy—and to free and fair elections—is not in vain, and that their nation is receiving the acknowledgment it deserves,” Rep. Smith added.

The statement underscores growing U.S. congressional attention to developments in the Horn of Africa amid shifting regional alliances and recognition debates.

Source: https://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415232

Statement

Prepared by:

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www.hornpost.com

Hargeisa Somaliland

Horn post staff

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