China Opposes Recognition of Somaliland

China firmly opposes Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an "independent sovereign state" and its agreement to "establish diplomatic relations" with it, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said here Monday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing, stating that China firmly supports Somalia's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and opposes any moves that undermine Somali territorial integrity.

China has noticed the federal government of Somalia immediately issued a statement firmly rejecting the move, and regional organizations including the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development have also expressed strong dissatisfaction and condemnation, Lin said.

He said according to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international laws, Somaliland is an integral part of the Somali territory.

Lin said the Somaliland issue is entirely an internal affair of Somalia and should be resolved by the Somali people in a manner consistent with their national conditions and constitution. He also highlighted that countries outside the region should cease inappropriate interference and no country should incite or support separatist forces within another nation for its own selfish interests.

"We urge the Somaliland authorities to recognize the situation, and immediately cease separatist activities and collusion with external forces," he said.