MOGADISHU – Somalia on Tuesday voiced strong concern over reports that Israel has established contacts with the breakaway northern region of Somaliland without involving the federal government in Mogadishu.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said any such engagement would constitute a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and constitutional order.
The ministry stressed that Somalia is a sovereign and internationally recognised state, and that the Federal Government in Mogadishu is the only legitimate authority empowered to conduct foreign relations on behalf of the country.
It added that any political, diplomatic or other form of engagement with Somaliland that bypasses the federal authorities would be “contrary to international law” and carry no legal or political legitimacy.
Somalia urged its international partners to respect international law and the country’s unity, warning against any actions it said could undermine stability and national cohesion.
While reaffirming its commitment to peaceful dialogue and regional cooperation, Mogadishu said it reserves the right to take “all necessary legal and diplomatic measures” to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The government, however, said it would not accept any action that undermines Somalia’s unity or the constitutional framework of the state.
