The European Union calls for respect of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity after Israel recognises Somaliland, urging dialogue for regional stability
BRUSSELS: The European Union has called for respect of Somalia’s sovereignty following Israel’s formal recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland.
EU foreign affairs spokesman Anouar El Anouni said the bloc “reaffirms the importance of respecting the unity, the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
“This is key for the peace and stability of the entire Horn of Africa region,” the spokesman added in a statement.
The EU also encouraged “meaningful dialogue between Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia to resolve long standing differences.”
Israel announced its official recognition of Somaliland on Friday, a first for the self-proclaimed republic.
Somaliland declared unilateral independence from Somalia in 1991 but has remained diplomatically isolated.
The move was denounced by Somalia’s government in Mogadishu as a “deliberate attack” on its sovereignty.
Egypt, Turkey, the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation have also condemned Israel’s decision.
Somaliland enjoys a strategic position on the Gulf of Aden and has its own currency, passports and army.