ANKARA, Turkey – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey has issued a formal statement condemning the announcement by Israel regarding the recognition of the independence of the Somaliland region. In a written response to a question on the matter, Spokesperson Öncü Keçeli characterized the move as a violation of international law and a threat to the stability of the Horn of Africa.
Spokesperson Keçeli emphasized that Turkey views the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia as inviolable. He stated that unilateral actions such as Israel’s recognition are null and void under international law and contradict the Charter of the United Nations. “The preservation of Somalia’s political unity and territorial integrity is a fundamental requirement for peace and stability in the region,” Keçeli noted, reaffirming Ankara’s longstanding policy of supporting the Federal Government in Mogadishu.
The statement warned that this development risks triggering further instability in an already fragile region. The Spokesperson highlighted that attempts to bypass the legitimate government of Somalia or to legitimize separatist movements undermine collective efforts to combat terrorism and foster development. Turkey cautioned that such “opportunistic moves” by external actors would not be accepted by the international community.
Reiterating the deep historical bonds between Turkey and Somalia, Keçeli assured that Ankara will continue to stand by the friendly and brotherly people of Somalia. He concluded by calling on all international actors to respect Somalia’s sovereignty and to refrain from actions that could exacerbate tensions in the Horn of Africa.
