Taipei, Taiwan(Mogadishu24)-The breakaway republic of Somaliland and Taiwan have signed a significant agreement for the construction of the “Taiwan Road,” a vital infrastructure project that will connect Egal International Airport to the capital, Hargeisa.

The agreement was announced by Taiwan’s representative to Somaliland, Allen Lou, during a ceremony on Wednesday, September 4.

Taiwan will contribute US$1.85 million, covering 70% of the total project cost, with Hargeisa Municipality providing the remaining 30%.

Lou emphasized that the road symbolizes trilateral cooperation between the Somaliland government, Hargeisa Municipality, and Taiwan, showcasing Taiwan’s people-centered development model.

This project is part of a broader cooperation between Taiwan and Somaliland. Recently, Taiwan helped launch a health information system at Berbera Regional Hospital, and a Somaliland delegation visited Taiwan to discuss energy and mineral cooperation.

Taiwan has also contributed to wildlife conservation efforts in Somaliland by supporting the Cheetah Conservation Fund’s education center.

The two sides have strengthened ties since setting up mutual representative offices in 2020, despite neither being internationally recognized. The agreement comes as Somaliland prepares for its presidential and parliamentary elections set for November 13, 2024.