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Family photo from the 13th Organization of Islamic Cooperation Summit in Istanbul. PHOTO: AFP
ISLAMABAD:
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), along with 21 member states including Pakistan, has firmly rejected Israel’s recent recognition of the “Somaliland” region of Somalia, citing serious implications for peace and security in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
In a joint statement, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Gambia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Türkiye, Yemen and the OIC stressed that Israel’s measure constitutes a flagrant disregard of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, which explicitly safeguards the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States.
The statement reiterated unequivocal support for Somalia’s sovereignty, warning against any action that could undermine the country’s unity or territorial integrity, according to a Radio Pakistan report.
The statement also rejected any potential connection between Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian people, emphasizing that such measures are unacceptable in any form.
In this regard, meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali on Sunday, reaffirming Pakistan’s full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.
During the conversation, Dar condemned any action aimed at undermining Somalia and assured Pakistan’s continued assistance in raising Somalia’s concerns at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other multilateral forums.
The Somali foreign minister expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s strong support and highlighted the importance of the country’s support on international platforms. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Somalia, underlining the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two nations.
(WITH INPUT FROM THE APP)
