Islamic consensus supports the unity of Somalia and rejects any infringement upon its sovereignty
Islamic countries, represented by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and other major diplomatic bodies, reaffirmed their unwavering support for the unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, emphasizing the need to respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of current regional challenges. This Islamic consensus serves as a strong political message rejecting any unilateral actions or agreements that could undermine Somali sovereignty or threaten the stability of the Horn of Africa.
Context of tensions in the Horn of Africa
This unified Islamic stance comes at a highly sensitive time for the East African region, particularly following diplomatic tensions stemming from attempts to bypass the federal government in Mogadishu by signing memoranda of understanding or agreements with separatist regions. Islamic and Arab states view these moves as a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter, which clearly stipulates respect for borders inherited at independence and non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states.
The strategic importance of Somali unity
The Islamic and Arab interest in the Somali issue stems not only from religious brotherhood but also from significant geopolitical realities. Somalia possesses the longest coastline in Africa and overlooks vital waterways for global trade, most notably the Gulf of Aden and the southern entrance to the Red Sea at the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Consequently, any destabilization of Somalia or fragmentation of its territorial integrity poses a direct threat to Arab and Islamic national security and negatively impacts the security of international navigation in one of the world's most important economic arteries.
International and regional supportive stance
The Islamic consensus aligns with the international positions issued by the League of Arab States, the African Union, and the European Union, all of which have stressed the necessity of preserving the territorial integrity of Somalia. Successive statements issued by summits and ministerial meetings of Islamic countries have emphasized that the stability of Somalia is a fundamental pillar for the stability of the entire region, warning that fueling border conflicts could pave the way for the resurgence of extremist groups that exploit security and political vacuums.
Calls for calm and dialogue
In concluding their statements, the Islamic countries called upon all regional parties to prioritize diplomatic dialogue and good neighborliness, and to refrain from imposing a fait accompli. They emphasized that economic and developmental cooperation among the countries of the Horn of Africa must be conducted through legitimate official channels, ensuring the interests of all peoples without infringing upon the rights of others. They affirmed their continued political and developmental support for the Somali government to enable it to extend its authority over all of its national territory.
