Hargeisa (Hornpost) The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland, Dr. Abdourahman Daahir Aadan, has spoken out regarding the recently signed agreement between Somaliland and Taiwan, emphasizing that it focuses on maritime cooperation.
“The agreement is mainly about cooperation in protecting the coastlines of sides, development assistance, training programs, exchange of ideas, and mutual advice,” said Minister Aadan.
The Minister clarified that the agreement is a continuation and formalization of a previous memorandum of understanding between the two governments.
“This deal with Taiwan finalizes an earlier understanding that had already been signed between Taiwan and Somaliland. We went there to complete it,” the Minister added.
He emphasized the significance of the agreement for Somaliland, particularly in relation to the country’s maritime resources.
“It’s of great benefit to us. Marine resources are extremely important to Somaliland. If we cannot protect our maritime wealth, we cannot make use of it,” he said.
Minister Aadan also stated that Somaliland, as a self-governing entity still under development, has every right to partner with any country that can assist in its national interests.
“We are not interfering with anyone else’s affairs, and we do not believe we have committed any wrongdoing. Somaliland is a country, and we can work with anyone willing to cooperate with us in good faith. We mean no harm to China and we respect them,” he said.
The Minister made these remarks in an interview with the BBC Somali Service, at a time when the Chinese Embassy in Somalia has strongly opposed the Somaliland–Taiwan agreement, calling it a violation of China’s territorial integrity.
Hornpost staff reporter