Taiwan Denounces Somalia's Travel Restrictions on Taiwanese Passport Holders

The Taiwanese foreign ministry has condemned Somalia for imposing a ban on travelers holding Taiwanese passports, which comes amid escalating tensions over the self-governing island's international status and its ties with Somaliland. Taiwan has urged its citizens against travel to the region until the ban is lifted.

Taiwan has issued a strong condemnation of Somalia following the implementation of a travel ban that prohibits holders of Taiwanese passports from entering or transiting through the East African nation. The ban, which took effect on Wednesday, was communicated by the Somali aviation authorities in a notice sent to airlines.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry accused Somalia of acting under Beijing's influence to curb the freedoms and safety of its nationals, demanding the immediate revocation of the notice. The ministry highlighted the unjust interpretation of UN Resolution 2758 by Somalia, which it believes is being manipulated to support the "one China" principle.

As Taiwan seeks to strengthen its diplomatic relations with Somaliland—a region that has declared independence from Somalia but remains largely unrecognized—this travel ban has raised concerns around regional stability and international law. Both Taiwan and Somaliland established embassies in each other's cities in 2020, a move that displeased both China and Somalia.

In the wake of the ban's announcement, Taiwan's foreign ministry advised its citizens to refrain from traveling to Somalia or Somaliland until the situation is resolved. The Chinese government has welcomed Somalia's decision, viewing it as a confirmation of Somalia’s adherence to the one-China principle.

Taiwan operates as a separate democratic entity with its own government and constitution, but it faces constant pressure from China, which asserts that the island is part of its territory and has threatened military action to reclaim control. Despite its diplomatic efforts, Taiwan is recognized by only a few countries globally.

In contrast, Somaliland, which has not received international recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, continues to develop its own governance structures, including regular elections, while many territories in Somalia remain under the control of the al-Shabab militant group.

The ongoing political complexities surrounding Taiwan, Somalia, and Somaliland illustrate the broader geopolitical tensions influenced by the relationship between Taiwan and China, impacting regional dynamics in East Africa and international relations.