By Goth Mohamed Goth

In a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Awareness, Hon. Ahmed-Yasin Sh. Ali Ayanle, hosted a high-level meeting with Hon. Allen Leu, Taiwan’s Representative to Somaliland, and accompanying officials at his office in Hargeisa today.

The engagement underscores the growing partnership between the two nations, focusing on mutual cooperation amid recent advancements in the financial, technological, and maritime sectors. The meeting aimed to promote mutual understanding, offer a formal welcome, and establish a framework for collaborative efforts between Somaliland’s Ministry of Information and the Taiwanese Representative Office.

Attendees from the Somaliland side included the Deputy Minister, Director General, Director of Planning, Director of Administration, Deputy Director of Radio, and Head of Monitoring and Evaluation.

Key discussion points highlighted strategic priorities:

  1. Countering Misinformation: Both parties agreed to intensify joint efforts in combating propaganda and false narratives directed against Taiwan and the Republic of Somaliland, utilizing their shared experiences in digital resilience.

  2. Media and Cultural Exchange: Emphasis was placed on collaborative initiatives in modern media, information sharing, and promoting the cultural heritage of both Somaliland and Taiwan to foster public awareness and strengthen people-to-people ties.

  3. Showcasing Achievements: The Ministry presented an overview of its foundational milestones and notable successes, receiving positive feedback from the Taiwanese delegation on Somaliland’s progress in information management and public outreach.

  4. Awareness Programs: Plans were outlined for co-developing reports, campaigns, and programs to highlight the value of bilateral cooperation and the fraternal bonds between Somaliland and Taiwan, targeting both domestic and international audiences.

  5. Capacity Building: Opportunities for ministry staff to access Taiwanese training programs, scholarships, and educational grants were explored, with a call for active participation to enhance professional skills in information and cultural sectors.

This meeting follows several recent developments that have strengthened Somaliland-Taiwan relations.