Somaliland offers the US exclusive mineral access and military bases, seeking recognition after Israel’s endorsement, as it positions itself strategically in the Horn of Africa.

HARGEISA: Somaliland is willing to grant the United States exclusive access to its mineral resources and offer military bases, a senior minister has told AFP.

Minister of the Presidency Khadar Hussein Abdi stated the breakaway region is actively seeking an agreement with Washington. “We are willing to give exclusive (access to our minerals) to the United States. Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States,” he said in an interview.

This offer comes as Somaliland intensifies its push for international recognition following Israel’s endorsement of its independence in December. The territory has governed itself since declaring autonomy from Somalia in 1991, maintaining its own currency, army, and passport.

Abdi expressed confidence that a deal with the US could be reached. “We believe that we will agree on something with the United States,” he said.

The minister also did not rule out the possibility of allowing Israel to establish a military presence. Somaliland’s president recently suggested granting Israel privileged access to its mineral resources.

Officials claim the region possesses valuable resources like lithium and coltan, though independent verification is lacking. Its strategic location across the Gulf of Aden from Yemen adds to its geopolitical significance.

The government in Mogadishu continues to assert that Somaliland is an integral part of Somalia. The territory’s latest diplomatic moves aim to bolster its case for sovereign statehood on the global stage.

 The Sun Malaysia