China has aligned with a growing coalition of nations and international organizations in vehemently opposing Israel’s unprecedented recognition of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state. The diplomatic move, announced by Israel on Friday, has triggered a swift and widespread backlash across the international community.
At an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Sun Lei, articulated Beijing’s firm position. “China expresses grave concerns and firmly opposes this recognition,” stated Sun, emphasizing that the action dangerously escalates tensions throughout the Horn of Africa while directly threatening regional peace and stability.
The recognition marks a historic departure as Somaliland, which unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991, had previously failed to gain formal recognition from any UN member state. Israel’s decision to establish full diplomatic relations with the breakaway region has drawn immediate condemnation from more than twenty nations, predominantly from Middle Eastern and African regions, alongside major international bodies.
Notable among the critics are Somalia’s federal government, Egypt, Türkiye, Djibouti, the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and the European Union. These entities have collectively reaffirmed their support for Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Ambassador Sun underscored the fundamental principle of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter, describing it as an unshakable cornerstone of international law. “Somaliland is an integral part of Somali territory,” he asserted, reiterating China’s unwavering support for Somalia’s unity and territorial completeness.
The Chinese diplomat characterized the Somaliland issue as exclusively Somalia’s internal affair, asserting that resolution must come through dialogue consistent with Somalia’s national conditions and constitutional framework. Sun urged external nations to cease unwarranted interference and specifically cautioned against countries aiding separatist forces to advance their own geopolitical interests.
China called upon the relevant nation—implicitly Israel—to act responsibly by adhering to international law, heeding the international community’s consensus, and immediately rectifying what Beijing termed an “erroneous act.” Simultaneously, China urged Somaliland authorities to halt separatist activities and external collaborations, encouraging a return to dialogue with Somalia’s federal government.
Looking forward, China committed to continuing its support for Somalia’s sovereignty while working with the international community to enhance counter-terrorism capabilities, advance political dialogue, and promote national unity, ultimately striving for peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the region.