In a significant diplomatic clash, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday that Somalia has instituted a ban on Taiwanese passport holders entering its territory. Officials from Taiwan are blaming this decision on growing Chinese pressure exerted on Somalia as Taiwan seeks to strengthen its connections with Somaliland, a breakaway region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991.
Somaliland, despite its self-governance, has struggled for international recognition, which has hindered its capacity to form trade agreements and manage its airspace effectively. In recent years, it has bolstered diplomatic ties with Taiwan, angering both Somalia and China, which are concerned about increasing Taiwanese influence in Africa.
On the heels of Taiwan's foreign minister's trip to Eswatini—Africa's only country that recognizes Taipei diplomatically—the Somali Civil Aviation Authority alerted airlines last week that Taiwanese citizens would be prohibited from entering, exiting, or transiting through the country starting on Wednesday.
The Somali authorities justified their decision by citing adherence to United Nations Resolution 2758, enacted in 1971, which recognizes the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China in the UN. While the resolution does not specifically address Taiwan's sovereign status, China views it as a legal foundation for its claims over Taiwan.
As the diplomatic tensions escalate, Somaliland continues to pursue recognition, including courting support from previous U.S. administrations, particularly focusing on conservative lawmakers, in its quest for international legitimacy and partnership.
