Somaliland–Taiwan Relations: Cooperation Born of Shared Values and Aspirations

Introduction

As is widely known, Taiwan and Somaliland share many commonalities in terms of political and strategic circumstances.
This article will deeply examine the historical background of both entities, the opportunities they share, how they can cooperate in the future,
how they can jointly overcome political challenges, what economic benefits they can share, and more.

Taiwan: History, Strengths, and Strategic Relevance

Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, east of China. Its capital is Taipei, with a population of over 23 million.

In the 17th century, Taiwan was occupied by Dutch colonisers, followed by the Qing Dynasty of China in 1683. In 1895, following the First Sino-Japanese War,
Taiwan was ceded to Japan and remained under Japanese rule until 1945.

After Japan's defeat in World War II, Taiwan was handed back to China. However, in 1949, the Kuomintang (KMT), having lost the Chinese civil war, fled to Taiwan
and established a separate government claiming to represent all of China. This led to the current situation, where Taiwan (ROC) and China (PRC) maintain rival claims.

Although Taiwan functions as a de facto independent country, China insists it is part of its territory. Over 180 countries do not officially recognise Taiwan
due to diplomatic pressure from China, although Taiwan maintains strong informal relations in trade, technology, and politics with many nations, including Somaliland.

Today, Taiwan is highly developed, especially in technology (notably microchips), healthcare, education, and democracy. It has a robust electoral system,
independent media, and a growing economy.

Key Industries Taiwan Depends On

1. Microchips / Semiconductors:
- Taiwan is globally renowned for microchip production.
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) is the world’s leading chip producer used in smartphones, computers, modern vehicles, military systems, and AI.
- Over 60% of advanced chips globally come from Taiwan.

2. Electronic Equipment:
- Taiwan manufactures laptops, tablets, motherboards, processors.
- Companies like Acer, ASUS, MSI, and HTC are Taiwanese.

3. Industrial Machinery & Automation:
- Taiwan is a leader in precision machinery and factory equipment.

4. Global Bicycles:
- Giant is one of the world’s largest bicycle producers, based in Taiwan.

5. Medical Equipment & Pharmaceuticals:
- Though not a global leader, Taiwan exports quality healthcare products and medicines.

Taiwan’s Strategic Dependence

- Heavy reliance on high-tech exports, particularly microchips.
- Global trade ties, especially with the USA, Japan, South Korea, and the EU.
- Maritime security and freedom of navigation—critical due to Taiwan’s island position.
- Technical and security support from Western allies, as Taiwan lacks widespread formal recognition.

Why Maritime Security Matters for Taiwan

Taiwan is strategically located near the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait—among the busiest global trade routes.

Over 70% of Taiwan’s imports and exports rely on maritime routes. Political or military tensions from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, could threaten this flow.

Military drills by China in nearby waters raise alarm, making maritime freedom vital. Taiwan relies on allies like the US, Japan, and Australia to protect these routes and ensure trade stability.

Somaliland: A Historical Perspective

British Somaliland was established in 1884. The British ruled through agreements with local clans. Between 1900–1920, fierce resistance came from the Dervish movement led by Sayid Mohamed Abdullah Hassan. The British ultimately crushed the Dervish capital in Taleh in 1920 through airstrikes.

On 26 June 1960, British Somaliland gained independence and became a sovereign state. Just days later, on 1 July 1960, it voluntarily united with Italian Somalia to form the Republic of Somalia.

However, the union was not formalised through a constitutional agreement. Over the next decades, Somaliland faced marginalisation, economic neglect, and political repression.

In the 1980s, the Somali National Movement (SNM) rose against the Barre regime. The 1988 bombing of Hargeisa resulted in significant civilian casualties and destruction.

On 18 May 1991, following Somalia's collapse, leaders in Burao declared Somaliland’s withdrawal from the union, reclaiming its independence. Since then, Somaliland has held democratic elections, maintained peace, and built state institutions.

Modern Somaliland (1991–2025)

Somaliland has successfully conducted multiple democratic elections. Presidents elected include:
- Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal (1993–2002)
- Dahir Riyale Kahin (2002–2010)
- Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo (2010–2017)
- Muse Bihi Abdi (2017–2023)
- Muse Bihi was succeeded by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi "Cirro" in 2023.

Somaliland has its own passport, currency, legal system, and national flag. It maintains informal relations with countries like Taiwan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the UAE.

Although not formally recognised internationally, it has built a reputation for peace, democracy, gradual economic growth, and expanding international engagement.

Why Somaliland and Taiwan Align

The shared political and strategic struggles of Taiwan and Somaliland help explain their unique bond. Despite lacking full international recognition, both have established effective governments, democratic institutions, and vibrant societies.

This article aims to help readers understand why Somaliland and Taiwan find common ground and mutual support.

Areas for Future Somaliland–Taiwan Cooperation

1. Technology & Digital Development:
- Taiwan can provide training in IT, coding, e-government, and help build tech hubs.

2. Higher Education & Vocational Training:
- Scholarships, teacher exchange, and establishing TVET centres can enhance youth capacity.

3. Healthcare & Medical Technology:
- Taiwan can support Somaliland in hospital construction, training doctors and nurses, and introducing telemedicine.

4. Agriculture & Food Security:
- Training in irrigation, farming tools, and agri-research can improve local food systems.

5. Trade & Investment:
- Somaliland can export fish, livestock, and agricultural goods.
- Taiwan can invest in ports, storage facilities, and local industries.

6. Governance & Democracy Building:
- Taiwan’s experience can support anti-corruption, electoral systems, and civic education.

7. Infrastructure Development:
- Roads, water supply, solar energy, and port equipment (Berbera, Ceel-Sheikh) are potential areas of collaboration.

Conclusion

The Somaliland–Taiwan relationship is grounded in shared values and aspirations. Together, they can build a sustainable and mutually beneficial future in the face of global challenges.

contect writter ; abdiciro53@gmail.com