China Rejects Israel’s Recognition of Somaliland, Reaffirms Support for Somalia’s Sovereignty

China on Monday strongly opposed Israel’s decision to formally recognize Somaliland as an “independent sovereign state” and its announcement to establish diplomatic relations with the self-declared region. Beijing reiterated its firm support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, calling the move a violation of international norms.

Israel became the first country to officially recognize Somaliland on Friday. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali central government, but it has not received formal international recognition despite maintaining its own administration, security forces, and institutions for more than three decades.

Addressing a regular media briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China firmly supports Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and strongly opposes any actions that undermine Somali territorial integrity.

“The Somaliland issue is entirely an internal matter of Somalia and should be resolved by the Somali people themselves, in accordance with their constitution and national realities,” Lin stated, emphasizing Beijing’s long-standing position on respecting state sovereignty.

Lin further stressed that no government should instigate, encourage, or support separatist forces within another country for self-serving geopolitical objectives. He added that countries outside the region should refrain from inappropriate interference in Somalia’s internal affairs.

“We urge the Somaliland authorities to clearly recognize the current situation, immediately cease separatist activities, and stop colluding with external forces,” Lin said.

According to the Chinese spokesperson, several regional and international organizations have also expressed strong opposition and concern over Israel’s move. These include the African Union (AU), the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

Lin noted that the Federal Government of Somalia swiftly issued a statement condemning Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and international law.

He concluded by reaffirming that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somali territory under the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter and established norms of international law, and that China will continue to stand firmly with Somalia on issues related to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.