AU Commission rejects recognition of Somaliland, reaffirms Somalia’s territorial integrity

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, firmly rejected any move to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, reiterating the African Union’s unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In a statement issued on Friday, Youssouf said the Commission had taken note “with deep concern” of recent developments relating to Somaliland, stressing that the AU’s position on the matter remains longstanding, consistent, and grounded in the principles of the Constitutive Act of the African Union.

He underscored the AU’s adherence to the principle of respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, as affirmed by the 1964 decision of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the AU’s predecessor.

According to the Commission Chairperson, this principle is fundamental to maintaining stability and order across the continent.

“The Chairperson of the Commission firmly rejects any initiative or action aimed at recognizing Somaliland as an independent entity,” the statement said, recalling that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia.

He warned that any attempt to undermine Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity would run counter to core African Union principles and could set a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability in Africa.

Youssouf further reaffirmed the African Union’s full support for the Somali authorities, particularly their efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen state institutions, and advance inclusive governance.

He emphasized that the AU will continue to stand by Somalia as it works to stabilize the country and build durable national institutions.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognized as a sovereign state by the African Union or the international community.

The AU has consistently maintained that any resolution to Somalia’s political status must respect the country’s territorial integrity and be achieved through dialogue and African-led processes. Israel officially recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, marking a major diplomatic development in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision on Friday, confirming that Israel and Somaliland signed a joint and mutual declaration formalizing the recognition.

The declaration was signed alongside Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and the President of Somaliland, Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdallah.

Netanyahu said the agreement was inspired by the spirit of the Abraham Accords, which were initiated under former United States President Donald Trump to normalize relations between Israel and several countries in the region.

“This declaration reflects our shared commitment to peace, stability and cooperation,” Netanyahu said, praising President Abdallah’s leadership and Somaliland’s role in promoting security in a strategically important region. He formally invited the Somaliland president to make an official visit to Israel.

President Abdallah welcomed Israel’s recognition, describing it as a historic milestone for Somaliland’s long-standing quest for international acknowledgment.

He expressed gratitude to Netanyahu and the Israeli government, while commending Israel’s efforts in combating terrorism and fostering regional peace.

Netanyahu also acknowledged the role played by Foreign Minister Sa’ar, Mossad Director David Barnea, and the Israeli intelligence service in facilitating the diplomatic breakthrough.

Following the recognition, Israel announced plans to rapidly expand bilateral relations with Somaliland.

According to Netanyahu, cooperation will focus on key sectors including agriculture, health, technology and economic development.