Sweden supports Somalia's sovereignty, rejects Israeli Somaliland move

Sweden has declared its firm support for Somalia's unity and sovereignty in response to Israel's recent recognition of the breakaway region of Somaliland. In a statement on Monday via the social media platform X, the Swedish Foreign Ministry aligned itself with the European Union, the African Union, and key regional bodies in upholding the principles of Somalia's territorial integrity.

International Consensus Against Recognition

The Swedish position reinforces a growing international consensus rejecting Israel's move. Over the weekend, the EU similarly reaffirmed the importance of respecting the unity and sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The bloc urged "meaningful dialogue" between Somaliland and the Somali federal government in Mogadishu to resolve long-standing disputes. This diplomatic pushback includes numerous countries in Africa and the Middle East, with Türkiye notably joining a statement released by Qatar on Saturday condemning the recognition.

Background of the Somaliland Issue

The diplomatic row stems from Israel's announcement on Friday, making it the first country to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has functioned as a de facto independent entity since, though it has failed to gain widespread international recognition. The Somali government in Mogadishu consistently refuses to recognize its independence, considers the region an integral part of its territory, and views any foreign engagement with Somaliland as a violation of its sovereignty.

Implications for Regional Stability

The unified stance from Sweden, the EU, and regional powers highlights the sensitivity of territorial issues in the Horn of Africa. It underscores a preference for resolving internal disputes through dialogue within the framework of a single Somali state, a position strongly supported by Türkiye, a key partner for Somalia with significant investment and development ties in the region. The situation continues to develop as the international community reacts to Israel's unprecedented diplomatic step.