MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Somali Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, has summoned the Danish Ambassador to Somalia, Steen Sonne Andersen, in what appears to be a diplomatic row over comments that allegedly challenge Somalia’s sovereignty.
Fiqi’s office confirmed the summoning took place amid rising tensions regarding statements made by foreign diplomats concerning the region of Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, though this declaration is not internationally recognized.
The Foreign Minister’s action comes after Andersen reportedly made remarks or statements that were interpreted by Mogadishu as undermining Somalia’s territorial integrity. The specifics of Andersen’s comments have not been detailed in the official statements.
At a press conference held on Wednesday, Minister Fiqi emphasized the importance of respect for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity. “We expect all diplomatic representatives to adhere to the principles of respect towards our nation’s sovereignty,” he stated.
The summoning of the Danish Ambassador reflects Somalia’s ongoing efforts to assert its sovereignty and address international relations concerning its breakaway region, Somaliland, which has been operating as a de facto independent state for over three decades.
The Danish Embassy in Somalia has not yet released an official statement regarding the meeting. However, diplomatic sources suggest that discussions are aimed at clarifying the ambassador’s stance and ensuring future diplomatic engagements respect Somalia’s position on its national unity.
This incident adds to the series of diplomatic engagements Somalia has initiated with various countries to reaffirm its position on the Somaliland issue and its broader foreign policy objectives.
