China has reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity following Israel’s recent move to recognise Somaliland as an independent state. The statement from Beijing underscores its opposition to any international action perceived as undermining the unity of African nations.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated that China “opposes any attempt to split territories in Somalia” and cautioned against foreign interference in African domestic affairs. Lin stated that “no country should encourage or support other countries’ internal separatist forces for its own selfish interests”, a remark widely interpreted as directed at Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.
Somaliland, located in the Horn of Africa, declared independence from Somalia in 1991 amid the collapse of central governance in Mogadishu. Despite having maintained functional institutions, relative peace, and an independent political identity for over three decades, the region remains unrecognised by any United Nations member state.
Israel’s announcement last Friday marked a diplomatic shift that has drawn sharp criticism from both Mogadishu and regional partners. Somalia’s federal government condemned the decision as “an unlawful step” and “a deliberate attack on its sovereignty”. The statement highlighted Mogadishu’s stance that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia under international law.
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation also issued a statement urging the international community to reject external interference and support a “united, stable Somalia”. Pretoria’s position reflects the broader African Union consensus that questions of sovereignty and self-determination should be resolved within the continent’s existing legal and diplomatic frameworks.
China’s reaffirmation aligns with its longstanding foreign policy principle of non-interference and support for African territorial integrity. The Chinese government has historically maintained close ties with Somalia, contributing to infrastructure and development projects as part of its broader engagement with the Horn of Africa.
Observers note that the developments underscore competing geopolitical interests in the region, where African nations often find themselves navigating between emerging and established global powers. Analysts have pointed out that while Somaliland’s quest for recognition is rooted in historical grievances and local governance successes, external validation risks deepening internal divisions within Somalia and the wider region.
In an increasingly multipolar world, African voices have called for solutions that prioritise regional dialogue and local agency over unilateral recognition by external actors. The unfolding situation between Somalia, Somaliland, and external powers like China and Israel thus raises broader questions about the future of African self-determination and the ethics of recognition in international diplomacy.
The Southern African Times continues to monitor developments as African nations reaffirm their commitment to peaceful resolution of internal disputes and the safeguarding of continental sovereignty.
