MOGADISHU (Raxanreeb Online) — The Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, has dismissed reports suggesting that Washington is considering establishing a military base in Berbera, Somaliland.

Responding directly to the speculation, General Anderson stated that the United States has no plans to establish a military base in Somaliland.

“There is absolutely no plan to establish a U.S. military base in Somaliland,” he said.

The AFRICOM commander also rejected reports that the United States was considering formally recognising Somaliland. He reaffirmed Washington’s continued support for Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity.

General Anderson said that U.S. foreign policy continues to prioritise the sovereignty and territorial unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, adding that the longstanding security partnership between Mogadishu and Washington remains unchanged.

“The United States continues to respect the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Somalia, and our bilateral cooperation will remain in place,” he said.

He further stated that U.S. security assistance to Somalia would continue, although the scale and nature of the support would be influenced by the country’s political stability and the progress achieved in strengthening its security institutions.

General Anderson emphasised that cooperation between Somalia and the United States remains particularly important in the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab and in efforts to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Somali National Armed Forces.

He added that the United States would continue working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia to weaken Al-Shabaab, improve national security and support efforts to restore government authority across areas affected by the militant group.