MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali government has announced a sudden ban on all travelers using Taiwanese passports, blocking their entry and even transit through Somali airspace. The directive, issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, took effect immediately and was sent to all international airlines flying over or into the country.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry condemned the move, blaming Chinese pressure for Somalia’s decision. Officials in Taipei called on Somalia to reconsider, saying the ban damages regional cooperation.
Reacting quickly, Taiwan and Somaliland — which has close ties to Taiwan — jointly urged friendly countries and international organizations to push Somalia to lift the ban. Taiwan also issued a travel warning, advising its citizens not to visit either Somalia or Somaliland for now.
In contrast, China welcomed the decision, calling it a legitimate step that reflects Somalia’s sovereignty and its support for the “One China” principle.
A Message Beyond Airspace
While this appears to be a policy about flights and visas, it’s more than that. Somalia is sending a message — that it is asserting its status as a recognized state with control over its borders and skies. And by doing so, it is making a mark on international politics.
Despite Taiwan’s presence in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, it’s Somalia that legally controls the country’s airspace. That means international airlines have no choice but to follow Mogadishu’s orders.
Political and Diplomatic Calculations
This ban strengthens Somalia’s relationship with China and may open the door to economic and diplomatic rewards in the future. It also reinforces Somalia’s message to the world:
That it is the only legal government representing the Somali people;
That it controls its territory and airspace;
That it is ready to take action to isolate entities like Taiwan, which many countries do not officially recognize.
Somaliland’s Limitations in Focus
Somaliland, which runs its own affairs and maintains security, found itself sidelined in this decision. It lacks international recognition, and that limits what it can do — even within its own borders. The joint appeal with Taiwan was noted, but it carried little diplomatic weight.
The travel warning issued by Taiwan, which also included Somaliland, highlights the legal and diplomatic uncertainty facing the region. Though Taiwan has an office in Hargeisa, Somaliland can’t offer it protection under international law.
What This Means
This incident is a reminder of how recognition matters. Somalia, recognized by the United Nations and most countries, can make decisions with global impact. Somaliland, on the other hand, continues to struggle without that recognition.
For Somalia, the move is a bold display of sovereignty and alignment with a global power. For Somaliland, it is another reminder of the challenges it faces on the path to official statehood.
HORN LIFE
