In a move to deepen their partnership, Taiwan has pledged $22 million to renovate Hargeisa General Hospital and an additional $2 million to support Somaliland’s upcoming elections. Both nations, which are seeking greater international recognition, have reinforced their cooperation through these strategic investments.
The agreement to modernize Hargeisa General Hospital was formalized on Friday with the signing of a deal between Somaliland’s Minister of Health and Taiwan’s diplomatic representative. This initiative aims to improve healthcare services in Somaliland, with the $22 million investment expected to enhance medical infrastructure in Hargeisa and the surrounding regions.
In addition to healthcare support, Taiwan has committed $2 million toward Somaliland’s election process, with the funds set to assist in the preparations for the upcoming democratic elections. Taiwan’s Representative Office in Hargeisa highlighted the shared values between the two entities, stating: “Our bond is rooted in democracy and the pursuit of freedom, values that connect both Somaliland and Taiwan to the broader international community.”
Since establishing official relations in August 2020, Taiwan and Somaliland have garnered significant geopolitical attention. Taiwan, which has governed itself independently since 1949 but is claimed by China, and Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but lacks global recognition, both face opposition from powerful neighboring states. China and Somalia have criticized the growing ties between the two, arguing that the relationship undermines their territorial sovereignty.
Despite these objections, Taiwan and Somaliland continue to collaborate across various sectors, with Taiwan focusing on bolstering Somaliland’s economy. Efforts have been directed toward agriculture, fisheries, and small-scale industries, key sectors crucial to Somaliland’s economic stability.
Taiwan’s strategic involvement in Somaliland is seen by analysts as part of a broader campaign to forge alliances in Africa, a region where China’s influence is steadily increasing.