**Somaliland Rejects Somalia's Offer for Exclusive US-Controlled Port in Berbera**

Somaliland's Foreign Affairs Minister challenged Somalia's authority while maintaining hopes for international recognition.

In a bold statement of autonomy, Somaliland has firmly rejected an offer from the Somali central government to grant the United States exclusive control over the strategic port and airbase in Berbera. This coastal city, positioned along the important Gulf of Aden, has been a focal point as Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 amidst civil strife, maintains its claim to self-governance.

Recently, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sent a letter to US President Donald Trump outlining the benefits of such an arrangement for US security operations in the region. It included the potential offer of additional ports and airbases throughout Somalia. However, Somaliland's Foreign Affairs Minister, Abdirahman Dahir Aden, dismissed this as a "desperate" attempt by Mogadishu, emphasizing that the facilities in question are not under central authority.

Posting on X in response to the situation, Minister Aden expressed confidence in Somaliland's impending recognition as a sovereign nation, suggesting that the US understands the importance of dealing directly with Somaliland regarding Berbera port operations. The port, which has been expanded and is currently operated by DP World from the UAE—an ally of the US—remains crucial for both economic and strategic reasons.

Historically, the US has played an integral role in supporting Somalia against insurgents like al-Shabaab, with fears from Mogadishu that reduced American support could lead to a shift in power dynamics. The letter to Trump highlighted the necessity of maintaining a strong US presence to counterbalance growing international competition, notably from China and Russia in the Horn of Africa.

Furthermore, Mogadishu's push to offer the port of Bosaso and the airbase at Baledogle faces potential challenges due to Somalia's federal system. The semi-autonomous region of Puntland, which contains Bosaso, has yet to be consulted regarding this proposal, risking further tension between Puntland and the federal government.

Last year, tensions regarding Somaliland's ports came to a head when Turkey intervened in a dispute following Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland to develop a port, resulting in Somalia deeming the deal an "act of aggression." As these regional dynamics unfold, the future of Somaliland's statehood remains closely intertwined with the geopolitical interests of powerful international actors.