Somaliland courts U.S. with Red Sea base and minerals in bid for recognition

Somaliland’s new president,Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi,is offering the United States access to a strategic military base near the Red Sea and critical mineral resources,including lithium,in exchange for formal diplomatic recognition.

The breakaway region,which declared independence from Somalia in 1991,has yet to receive international recognition despite decades of stability and democratic governance. Now,with rising global interest in African resources and Red Sea security,Somaliland is positioning itself as a reliable partner in a volatile region. The breakaway region is open to U.S. cooperation in security,trade,and counter-terrorism,and would also be prepared to offer a deal involving critical minerals,Abdullahi told Bloomberg. “If the U.S. is interested to land in Somaliland,they are most welcome.” Talks with U.S. officials — including the Department of Defense and American diplomats in Somalia — have intensified. Abdullahi confirmed that senior U.S. military figures recently visited Hargeisa,the capital.

Somaliland’s offer comes at a time when the U.S. is reasserting influence in Africa amid a growing rivalry with China. A Red Sea foothold could enhance U.S. strategic presence near Houthi rebel activity and key shipping lanes. On the possibility of establishing a U.S. military base in the territory,Abdullahi responded: “We are now still discussing issues. We are looking forward to that discussion bearing fruits in the future.” However,Washington maintains its recognition of Somalia’s territorial integrity. The U.S. State Department reiterated it is not actively considering Somaliland’s bid. Despite the diplomatic hurdles,Abdullahi emphasized that partnerships on security and minerals could proceed regardless of formal recognition — part of a broader strategy to raise Somaliland’s international profile.