Hornpost
Presidency Minister Says Somaliland Alone Decides Its Foreign Partnerships.
Hargeisa (Horn post) The Government of Somaliland has issued a sharp response to Turkey following Ankara’s criticism of Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, declaring that Somalia’s president has neither the legal authority nor the political power to determine Somaliland’s international relations.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Somaliland’s Minister of the Presidency, Khadar Hussein Abdi, dismissed remarks made by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, framing them as both misguided and hostile.
“It is astonishing that after 35 years of ignoring our people and our cause, the Turkish government has suddenly discovered Somaliland’s strategic importance,” Khadar said. “What is even more disappointing is that this realization has turned into hostility.”
Minister Khadar added: “One simple truth remains firm: this is our land. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has neither the legal right nor the authority to bring you here. We, however, have both the legitimacy and the power to invite our friends.”
The minister’s remarks came a day after Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan strongly condemned Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, describing it as a grave mistake.
Speaking on broader regional issues, Fidan said Israel’s recognition amounted to a “major disaster” for Somaliland, framing his objection in religious and political terms.
“I see Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as the biggest disaster that could befall Somaliland,” Fidan said. “What could be worse for a Muslim society or a Muslim political entity? No one recognizes you, and Israel recognizes you—not because of who you are, but because you serve a malicious regional agenda. If God allowed this, it is a great shame and a severe punishment.”
Somaliland officials rejected the characterization, arguing that Turkey’s position reflects political interests rather than international law, and accused Ankara of aligning itself with Mogadishu at the expense of Somaliland’s long-standing quest for recognition.
Somaliland, which restored its sovereignty in 1991 following the collapse of the Somali state, maintains that it meets all legal criteria for statehood and has the right to independently engage with international partners.
The exchange underscores rising diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa as Somaliland’s international profile grows and external powers increasingly compete for influence in the strategically critical region.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
Hargeisa Somaliland.
