China has voiced strong opposition to any attempts to split Somalia, reaffirming its backing for the East African nation’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Speaking at a regular press briefing on Monday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian stressed that “no country should encourage or support other countries’ internal separatist forces for its own selfish interests.” He specifically urged authorities in Somaliland to halt “separatist activities and collusion with external forces.”
The statement comes days after Israel became the first country to formally recognise the self-declared Republic of Somaliland as an independent state, announcing plans to immediately cooperate with Somaliland on agriculture, health, technology, and economic initiatives.
China’s position highlights its continued support for Somalia amid growing international attention on Somaliland’s push for independence.
Melissa Enoch
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