China firmly opposes Israel's formal recognition of Somaliland as an "independent sovereign state" and its agreement to "establish diplomatic relations" with it, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a press briefing in Beijing on Monday.
He made the statement in response to a media inquiry about Israel's recognition of Somaliland.
"China is gravely concerned and firmly opposed to the move. China has noted the federal government of Somalia immediately issued a statement resolutely rejecting the move, and regional organizations including the African Union, the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and many countries in the region have also strongly deplored and condemned the move. According to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international laws, Somaliland is an inalienable part of the Somali territory. China firmly supports Somalia's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and opposes any attempt to split Somalia's territory," Lin said.
"The Somaliland issue is entirely an internal affair of Somalia and should be resolved by the Somali people in a manner in compliance with their national conditions and constitution. Countries outside the region should cease inappropriate interference and no country should encourage or support other countries' internal separatist forces for its own selfish interests. We urge the Somaliland authorities to recognize the situation, and immediately cease separatist activities and collusion with external forces," he said.
According to reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Dec 26 that Israel officially recognizes Somaliland as "an independent sovereign state," and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced that Israel and Somaliland had signed an agreement to establish full diplomatic relationship.
China opposes Israel's recognition of Somaliland: spokesman
China opposes Israel's recognition of Somaliland: spokesman
