Dubai, UAE — November 2025
The U.S. Marine Corps marked a historic milestone this week as Marines, diplomats, and invited guests gathered in Dubai for the 250th Marine Corps Birthday Ball. Among the honoured attendees was Masoud Ali, proudly representing Somaliland at one of the Marine Corps’ most iconic and globally respected traditions.
Hosted by the American Consulate in Dubai, the event blended ceremony, honour, and warm camaraderie as guests celebrated 250 years of Marine Corps service and the enduring spirit of Semper Fidelis.
A Night of Pride, Tradition, and Celebration
The evening featured all the signature elements of a Marine Corps Ball:
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Presentation of the Colours
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The ceremonial cake-cutting shared by the oldest and youngest Marines
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Speeches paying tribute to 250 years of discipline, courage, and service
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Music, conversations, and a joyful atmosphere throughout the hall
Reflecting on the experience, Masoud said:
“I had the honour of attending the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday last night, hosted by the American Consulate in Dubai. I extend heartfelt congratulations to the U.S. Marine Corps on this historic milestone.”
Somaliland’s Strategic Alignment: Pro-West, Pro-Taiwan, and China-Free
The presence of a Somaliland representative at this prestigious event comes at a time when Somaliland’s global profile is rising.
Somaliland stands out in the Horn of Africa for its:
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Pro-West alignment and democratic governance
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Strong and open partnership with Taiwan
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Clear stance in keeping Chinese military and political influence out
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Reputation as one of Africa’s safest, most stable democracies
This combination has attracted growing attention in Washington — especially as the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Bab el-Mandeb become increasingly strategic to global security.
Project 2025 Directly Mentions Somaliland
One of the most significant developments came from the Project 2025 – Mandate for Leadership document, which makes an unprecedented recommendation:
“…the recognition of Somaliland statehood as a hedge against the U.S.’s deteriorating position in Djibouti…”
This single sentence has become one of the most discussed lines in U.S. Africa policy circles — and one of the most celebrated by Somalilanders.
A Major New Development: H.R. 3992 — Republic of Somaliland Independence Act
Momentum continued in 2025 with the introduction of a landmark U.S. congressional bill:
H.R. 3992 — Republic of Somaliland Independence Act
(119th Congress, 2025–2026)
Official purpose:
“To extend formal United States recognition to the Republic of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state.”
This bill represents the strongest and most direct U.S. legislative effort to formally recognize Somaliland.
H.R. 3992 includes provisions to:
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Formally recognize Somaliland’s independence
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Establish full diplomatic relations
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Expand political, security, and economic cooperation
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Evaluate U.S. strategic opportunities at Berbera Port and Berbera International Airport
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Explore defense and maritime collaboration in the Gulf of Aden corridor
Together with Project 2025’s recommendation, the introduction of H.R. 3992 signals a historic shift in how Washington views Somaliland — not only as a democracy, but as a strategic partner.
Many Somalilanders now look forward to greater cooperation and the possibility of a future U.S. presence or partnership facility in Berbera, one of the most strategically located deep-water ports on the African coast.
An Evening of Respect, Connection, and Optimism
Despite the major strategic discussions surrounding Somaliland, the Dubai celebration remained warm, friendly, and full of joy. Guests shared photos, conversations, and slices of the traditional Marine Corps birthday cake — celebrating history, honour, and international friendship.
As the U.S. Marine Corps commemorates 250 years of Semper Fidelis, Somaliland proudly extends its congratulations and respect — and looks ahead to a future of deeper recognition, stronger partnership, and shared democratic values.
