MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar Balcad, said he held talks with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz to discuss counterterrorism and regional security, describing Washington’s support as “vital” to defeating extremist groups.
“Grateful to Senator Ted Cruz for meeting to discuss Somalia’s pivotal role in countering terrorism and securing the Horn of Africa. U.S. support is vital to defeating Al-Shabaab and ISIS, ensuring trade routes stay safe. Let’s strengthen our partnership for a stable, prosperous Somalia,” Balcad said in a post on X, Somalia’s equivalent of Twitter.
The meeting comes amid growing concern over militant activity in Somalia, where Al-Shabaab and ISIS affiliates continue to target civilians and infrastructure, threatening stability in the Horn of Africa.
U.S. military and intelligence support has played a key role in recent counterterrorism operations in the region.
The discussions also took place shortly after Senator Cruz publicly urged former President Donald Trump to recognize Somaliland, the self-declared breakaway region in northern Somalia, as an independent state.
Somalia considers Somaliland part of its sovereign territory and has consistently opposed any moves toward international recognition.
Analysts say the meeting underscores Somalia’s efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with U.S. lawmakers, particularly on security and economic cooperation, while reaffirming its stance on territorial integrity.
