Somaliland and Taiwan have taken a significant step towards strengthening their ties with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) and Somaliland’s Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies (IPCS). This marks Taiwan’s first defense research cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
The memorandum was signed via a conference call between INDSR Acting Vice President Shen Ming-shih and IPCS Director Nasir M. Ali. The event was attended by the Deputy Representative to Somaliland, Wu Chen-chi, and other researchers and scholars from IPCS.
According to Ali, this collaboration signifies another milestone in the growing cooperation between Somaliland and Taiwan. The two sides will engage in joint research, publications, visits, and organizing international conferences and other academic activities. Ali emphasized the strategic importance of both Somaliland and Taiwan in ensuring regional peace and stability.
Shen, in an interview with CNA, highlighted the changing regional and international situations faced by both Somaliland and Taiwan. He expressed the need for further interaction and information exchange on national security and regional security, given the increasing activities and influence of China in Africa. Shen also emphasized that signing the memorandum with the Somaliland think tank will enable Taiwan’s INDSR to extend its reach to the Horn of Africa and expand Taiwan’s influence in East Africa.
The cooperation between Somaliland and Taiwan comes at a time when the region around the Red Sea has become a key area of competition between major powers such as the U.S., China, and India. With China’s growing presence and influence in Africa, it is crucial for Taiwan to strengthen its partnerships and expand its influence in strategic locations like the Horn of Africa.
This defense research collaboration will not only enhance Taiwan’s understanding of regional dynamics and security challenges but also provide an opportunity for knowledge exchange and mutual learning. Joint research projects and publications will contribute to the academic community’s understanding of the Horn of Africa and its geopolitical significance.
Furthermore, the memorandum opens doors for increased visits and exchanges between Somaliland and Taiwan. These interactions will foster greater cultural and people-to-people exchanges, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.
The signing of the memorandum between INDSR and IPCS indicates Taiwan’s commitment to actively engaging with countries around the world, irrespective of the political challenges it faces. By establishing partnerships and collaborations, Taiwan aims to contribute to regional stability and peace.
As Taiwan seeks deeper ties with Somaliland, it is clear that both sides recognize the mutual benefits of cooperation. This collaboration in defense and security research will not only strengthen their bilateral relationship but also contribute to broader regional stability. The memorandum sets the stage for future joint initiatives and paves the way for a more comprehensive partnership between Somaliland and Taiwan.
The signing of the memorandum between INDSR and IPCS marks a significant milestone in Taiwan’s defense research cooperation in the Horn of Africa. This collaboration will deepen ties between Somaliland and Taiwan, contribute to regional stability, and expand Taiwan’s influence in East Africa. As both regions face changing geopolitical dynamics, this partnership will enable knowledge exchange, joint research, and academic activities, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between Somaliland and Taiwan.
