Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, Abdirahman Dahir Adan, stated in an interview with Israel’s public broadcaster KAN that the region is open to discussions on various matters but emphasized that any future dialogue must begin with formal recognition.
Adan made it clear that Somaliland, which unilaterally declared independence from Somalia more than three decades ago, has not been officially recognized by any UN member state, including Somalia. This lack of recognition has shaped the region’s stance on foreign relations and diplomatic engagements.
In response to reports that U.S. and Israeli officials had approached three East African governments about potentially relocating displaced Gazan Palestinians, Adan expressed that Somaliland would be willing to discuss such matters. However, he highlighted that the first step toward serious discussions would involve establishing diplomatic relations and recognition.
“We are open to any discussions, but we do not want to speculate on issues that have not yet been addressed,” Adan said in his written statement.
“We want to be recognized first, as a peace-loving and democratic nation that has been independent for 33 years.”
While the idea of absorbing displaced residents from Gaza remains speculative, Somaliland’s position reflects its broader push for international recognition and acceptance of its self-declared independence.