Addis Ababa, February 14, 2026 – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Friday urged African Union member states to reject external interference, condemning Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and international law.
Speaking at the second Italy–Africa Summit, the President stressed that Africa’s development must be grounded in respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Constitutive Act of the African Union.
“These principles are not merely aspirational; they are legal obligations that determine our security,” President Hassan Sheikh said. He added that unilateral actions taken against Somalia’s sovereignty undermine the international order and must be firmly rejected.
Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared republic that declared independence from Somalia in 1991 without broad international recognition, has drawn opposition from Mogadishu and several African and Arab states.
Addressing the broader Italy–Africa partnership, President Hassan Sheikh recalled that the first Italy–Africa Summit held in Rome two years ago aimed to reshape cooperation based on African priorities and ownership. He emphasized that future cooperation should prioritize strategic infrastructure investment to promote stability and sustainable economic growth.
The President outlined Somalia’s national priorities, including strengthening resilience, creating employment opportunities for youth, improving food security, and integrating the country’s economy into regional and global markets.
He also underscored that peace and development are inseparable, expressing appreciation for Italy’s support to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, AUSSOM. President Hassan Sheikh said Somalia stands ready to deepen cooperation with Italy and partners involved in the Mattei Plan, guided by trust, mutual benefit, and a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Africa.
