Cyprus backs EU appeal to uphold Somalia’s sovereignty
The foreign ministry on Tuesday joined the EU in calling for respect for Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, reiterating its commitment for peace building measures in the region.
“[The Republic of Cyprus] aligns itself with the EU’s call for respect for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia and underlines its position that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the ministry said.
This statement follows Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state on 26 December, making it the first country and UN member state to do so.
“Cyprus repeats its commitment to [the African Union], the EU, and wider international efforts in support of strengthening state- and peacebuilding in Somalia, including as provided for in relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” the ministry continued.
The EU’s diplomatic service had issued a relevant statement on December 27, emphasising the importance of respecting Somalia’s territorial integrity for peace and stability in the entire Horn of Africa region, known as the Somali Peninsula in East Africa.
“The EU encourages meaningful dialogue between Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia to resolve long standing differences,” the statement read.