HARGEISA, Somaliland (BG) — Somaliland Foreign Minister Abdrahman Dahir Adan has expressed openness to discussions about potentially absorbing residents from Gaza, contingent upon receiving diplomatic recognition from Israel and the United States.

Although Somaliland has been operating independently since 1991, it remains unrecognized by any country as a sovereign state, which complicates its international relations and ability to engage in formal agreements.

While there have been no formal proposals from Israel or the U.S., as confirmed by Somaliland officials, the discussions highlight Somaliland’s ongoing quest for international recognition.

In a written statement, Somaliland’s foreign minister told KAN, an Israeli radio station, “We are open to discussion on any matter, but we do not want to speculate on matters that have not yet been discussed.”

He added, “All countries that are interested in discussing certain issues with us must first establish working relations with us and open diplomatic missions in Somaliland,” The Jerusalem Post reported Wednesday.

“The most important thing for us is to receive recognition after showing the world that we are a peace-loving and democratic country, which has been independent for 33 years,” he said.

“Any move towards recognising Somaliland’s independence would not only contravene Somalia’s sovereignty but also destabilise the region by setting a dangerous precedent,” the BBC quoted Ali Mohamed Omar, Somali state minister for foreign affairs, as saying.

Despite lacking formal international recognition, Somaliland has established diplomatic and economic ties with the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and various European nations.

Economic partnerships such as the Berbera Port agreement with DP World reinforce Somaliland’s self-sufficiency and ability to govern effectively.

A Strategic Bet on Berbera’s Location

Somaliland’s geographical position offers a strategic advantage in global shipping and logistics.

The republic boasts an 850-kilometer coastline along the Gulf of Aden, a vital maritime corridor connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Historically, Berbera’s port and airport have played significant roles in international military and economic affairs.

Given US President Donald Trump’s focus on pragmatic foreign policy and economic deals, Somaliland may find a receptive audience.