Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan affirmed his absolute rejection of Israel’s recognition of “Somaliland,” stressing that this decision is illegitimate and unacceptable. During a joint press conference with his Somali counterpart, Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud, this evening in Istanbul, Erdogan noted a significant improvement in security in Somalia, despite various attempts at sabotage by those who do not want the country to recover.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Erdogan announced that Turkey plans to begin energy exploration in Somalia next year, which will benefit the Somali people. He added, “We intend to build a port in Somalia in accordance with the agreements we have signed.” The Turkish president continued, “Our relations with Somalia, which are developing in all areas, are based on the strength of our historical and cultural ties and shared bonds.”
For his part, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud said that his country has felt Turkey’s support in confronting threats to Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Commenting on Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland as an independent state, Sheikh Mahmoud said, “The hostile stance of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against Somalia’s territorial integrity is unacceptable.”
He added, “This hostile stance violates international law and the UN Charter, as well as all the principles of diplomacy and the agreements upon which the African Union was founded.” He emphasized that non-interference in the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states is a fundamental value upon which all international systems are based.
Sheikh Mahmoud praised Turkey’s position and that of its people, especially at this time when Somalia is facing threats to its territorial integrity and sovereignty, and said, “We are working in Somalia, we are committed to establishing a strong government of our own, and to ensuring our territorial integrity and sovereignty.”
He noted that Turkey has been leading mediation efforts between Somalia and Somaliland for many years, working to resolve the issue peacefully and amicably. He continued, “President Erdogan reaffirmed today that Turkey stands with Somalia and will support it.”
He added, “Turkey’s support is crucial for Somalia’s progress, and its cooperation is essential for achieving peace, stability, and recovery.” He expressed his gratitude to all brotherly countries, institutions, and regional organizations that partner with Somalia.
The Somali president arrived in Istanbul earlier today at the official invitation of the Turkish president.