In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed-Yasin Sh. Ali Ayanle, hosted a high-level meeting with Hon. Allen Leu, Taiwan’s Representative to Somaliland, and accompanying officials at his office in Hargeisa today.
The engagement underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on mutual cooperation amid recent advancements in financial, technological, and maritime sectors. The meeting aimed to promote mutual understanding, extend a formal welcome, and establish a framework for collaborative efforts between Somaliland’s Ministry of Information and the Taiwanese Representative Office.
Attendees from the Somaliland side included the Deputy Minister, Director General, Director of Planning, Director of Administration, Deputy Director of Radio, and Head of Monitoring and Evaluation.
Key discussion points highlighted strategic priorities: 1. Countering Misinformation: Both parties agreed to intensify joint efforts in combating propaganda and false narratives directed against Taiwan and the Republic of Somaliland, leveraging shared experiences in digital resilience.
2. Media and Cultural Exchange: Emphasis was placed on collaborative initiatives in modern media, information sharing, and promoting the cultural heritage of both Somaliland and Taiwan to foster public awareness and people-to-people ties.
3. Showcasing Achievements: The Ministry presented an overview of its foundational milestones and notable successes, receiving positive feedback from the Taiwanese delegation on Somaliland’s progress in information management and public outreach.
4. Awareness Programs: Plans were outlined for co-developing reports, campaigns, and programs to underscore the value of bilateral cooperation and the fraternal bonds between Somaliland and Taiwan, targeting both domestic and international audiences.
5. Capacity Building: Opportunities for ministry staff to access Taiwanese training programs, scholarships, and educational grants were explored, with a call for active participation to enhance professional skills in information and cultural sectors.
This meeting comes on the heels of several recent developments strengthening Somaliland-Taiwan relations. Just days ago, on September 13, Somaliland’s Central Bank Governor Hon. Abdinasir engaged in productive talks with Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister and financial institutions, including the Central Bank of Taiwan and the Financial Supervisory Commission, to modernize Somaliland’s financial infrastructure.
Earlier this week, the Taiwan Technical Mission signed an agreement with local contractor Alla Aamin Engineering for the construction of Somaliland’s National Data Center, a project expected to bolster e-government services and digital infrastructure. These initiatives build on a July 2025 coast guard cooperation agreement and ongoing U.S. advocacy for formal recognition of Somaliland’s ties with Taiwan.
Experts view this as a “win-win” dynamic, with Taiwan providing expertise in technology and agriculture while Somaliland offers a stable foothold for Taiwanese engagement in East Africa.
Hon. Ayanle expressed optimism, stating, “This collaboration will not only counter external narratives but also enrich our cultural exchanges, paving the way for a brighter future.” Representative Allen echoed the sentiment, affirming Taiwan’s commitment to supporting Somaliland’s development goals.
As Somaliland prepares for potential international recognition—amid reports of U.S. discussions with former President Trump—these ties position the republic as a key player in regional geopolitics.
