MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Chinese embassy in Somalia on Friday condemned a recent letter by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz urging former President Donald Trump to recognize Somaliland, describing it as a blatant interference in Somalia’s internal affairs and a threat to China-Somalia relations.
In a strongly worded statement, the embassy accused Cruz of undermining Somalia’s sovereignty and meddling in regional stability. It said the move reflected “authoritarian and hegemonic practices” by some U.S. politicians toward the Somali people.
“This letter is a clear attack on the friendly relations between China and Somalia, and a gross violation of the principles of the UN Charter,” the embassy said. “China firmly supports Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.”
The embassy reiterated Beijing’s long-standing position on non-interference in the domestic affairs of other nations, while rejecting any foreign intervention in its own internal matters.
The statement also reaffirmed China’s stance on Taiwan, calling it an inalienable part of Chinese territory. It strongly opposed any attempts at “Taiwan independence” and foreign meddling, asserting China’s right to take all necessary measures to defend its national sovereignty and territorial unity.
The remarks came after Senator Cruz, who chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, sent a letter on August 14 urging Trump to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent nation.
In his letter, Cruz described Somaliland as a key U.S. partner in the Horn of Africa, citing its strategic location along the Gulf of Aden, its role in counterterrorism and anti-piracy efforts, and its growing diplomatic outreach—including hosting a Taiwan representative office in Hargeisa, seeking ties with Israel, and supporting the Abraham Accords.
Cruz also accused the Chinese Communist Party of pressuring Somaliland through economic and diplomatic means in retaliation for its ties with Taiwan and pro-Western orientation.
He argued that formal U.S. recognition of Somaliland could pave the way for enhanced military cooperation, expanded trade, and strengthened regional security.
The Somali federal government has rejected Cruz’s appeal, warning that recognition of Somaliland could undermine Somalia’s fight against extremist groups and threaten national unity.
Somaliland, which claims to have seceded from Somalia in 1991, welcomed the senator’s initiative, while continuing to push for international recognition—despite lacking formal acknowledgment from any UN member state.
