Taiwan has committed $22 million to rebuild the Hargeisa General Hospital and an additional $2 million to support Somaliland’s upcoming elections, strengthening ties between the two unrecognized states as they seek greater international legitimacy.
The agreement to modernize Hargeisa General Hospital was signed on Friday by Somaliland’s Minister of Health and Taiwan’s Representative. The hospital upgrade is part of Taiwan’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare services in Somaliland.
The $22 million investment is expected to improve healthcare delivery in the capital and surrounding regions.
Taiwan’s $2 million contribution to Somaliland’s electoral process aims to support democratic governance. The funding will aid preparations for upcoming elections.
A statement from Taiwan’s Representative Office in Hargeisa emphasized shared values between the two nations: “Democracy is a language we share, and freedom is a common goal that unites us. Freedom and democracy are the core principles that connect Somaliland and Taiwan to the global community.”
The relationship between Taiwan and Somaliland, formalized in August 2020, has attracted geopolitical interest due to both regions’ contested international status. Taiwan, while operating as a separate government since 1949, is claimed by China, which opposes any formal recognition of the island. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received official recognition from the global community.
China and Somalia have condemned the Taiwan-Somaliland relationship, viewing it as violating their territorial integrity.
Since formalizing their diplomatic ties, both sides have worked to improve Somaliland’s economic infrastructure. Taiwan has focused on enhancing key sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and small-scale industries, which are vital to Somaliland’s economy.
Taiwan’s strategic investment in Somaliland is seen as part of a broader effort to secure alliances in key regions, particularly in Africa, where China’s influence is growing.