Hargiesa (AF) Officials in Somaliland say the territory is prepared to offer the United States access to military bases and mineral resources, as it intensifies diplomatic efforts to secure international recognition.

The proposal was outlined by Khadar Hussein Abdi, Somaliland’s minister of the presidency, in an interview with the AFP news agency published on 22 February.

“We are willing to give exclusive [access to our minerals] to the United States.”
Khadar Hussein Abdi, AFP interview

Abdi added that the government is also open to hosting American military facilities.

“Also, we are open to offer military bases to the United States.”
Khadar Hussein Abdi, AFP interview

He said Somaliland believes it can ultimately reach an agreement with Washington, though no negotiations or commitments have been confirmed publicly.

Strategic Offer Amid Recognition Push

The offer comes as Somaliland — which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 — seeks to leverage its strategic location along the Gulf of Aden and its potential mineral reserves to attract international partnerships.

Israel became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland in December 2025, a development that has increased diplomatic activity around the territory but also intensified opposition from Somalia and regional organisations.

Resources and Security Cooperation

Somaliland Ministrer said they have rare minerals  like lithium, coltan and other strategic minerals

Abdi also indicated the government would not rule out allowing other foreign military presences as part of broader partnerships.

Despite the high-profile proposal, there has been no indication the United States has agreed to establish bases or alter its current policy toward Somaliland. The offer is widely viewed as a diplomatic signal designed to deepen ties and boost the territory’s recognition campaign.

Sources: AFP interview with Khadar Hussein Abdi

https://africadiplomat.com/