Washington (Hornpost.net) Two U.S. Congress Members Chris Smith and John Moolenaar have sent an official letter to the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, urging that Somaliland be specifically recognized in the U.S. travel advisory, instead of being grouped together with Somalia.
According to the statement, Two U.S. Congress Members praised Somaliland’s consistent democracy and transparent governance. They highlighted that free and fair elections have repeatedly led to the selection of leadership capable of maintaining security, combating piracy and terrorism, and advancing social development.
Chris Smith and John Moolenaar also emphasized that Somaliland is a key U.S. ally in the Horn of Africa, openly opposing Chinese influence and strongly supporting Taiwan, with whom it has close ties.
Two U.S. Congress Members argued that distinguishing Somaliland from Somalia in travel advisories could open new opportunities for investment, tourism, trade, and the development of natural resources — especially critical minerals like lithium — and stated that this would benefit American companies.
“Somaliland deserves fair recognition for its democratic efforts, stability, and its status as a strategically important ally to the United States,” the lawmakers stated.
Chris Smith, a leading advocate in Congress for the recognition of the Republic of Somaliland, noted that the Trump administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously taken important steps to strengthen U.S.–Somaliland relations.
He urged the U.S. government to clearly reflect the stability of Somaliland in its travel advisories, pointing out that Somaliland is a distinct and peaceful entity, unlike war-torn Somalia.
Hornpost staff Reporter
