East African Community affirms support for Somalia's unity, territorial integrity

The East African Community (EAC) has formally reaffirmed its commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of Somalia, recognizing the country as a single, sovereign state within its internationally recognized borders. In a statement released by its Secretariat in Arusha, Tanzania, on Sunday, the regional bloc aligned itself with the African Union's position, underscoring the principle of respecting Somalia's sovereignty.

Alignment with African Union Principles

The EAC statement explicitly noted that it "aligns with the position expressed by the African Union as reflected in the Constitutive Act of the African Union and relevant decisions concerning the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia." It further referenced the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community to stress the importance of respecting Somalia's borders as inherited at independence. The bloc called on all stakeholders to act within established regional and international legal frameworks that govern state sovereignty.

Context of Israel's Recognition of Somaliland

The EAC's declaration comes in direct response to Israel's controversial announcement on Friday recognizing the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state. That move was swiftly and strongly condemned by the Somali federal government in Mogadishu, as well as by the African Union, the Arab League, and numerous individual nations, including Türkiye. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has never gained widespread international recognition.

Reinforcing a Regional and Continental Consensus

By issuing this statement, the East African Community adds its voice to a growing chorus of regional and international bodies rejecting unilateral actions that threaten Somalia's unity. This collective stance reinforces a core principle of the African Union: the preservation of colonial-era borders to maintain continental stability. The EAC's position also signals solidarity with a member state facing external challenges to its sovereignty, highlighting the bloc's role in promoting regional cohesion and adherence to international law. For Türkiye, a staunch supporter of Somalia's sovereignty and a key partner in its development, such unified regional backing is a positive step in countering destabilizing actions.