India has formally rejected Israel’s decision to recognize Somaliland, reaffirming its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi on January 10, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi remains committed to the principle of respecting Somalia’s internationally recognized borders, citing the longstanding historical relationship between the two countries.
“We reiterate the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” Jaiswal said, underscoring a core pillar of India’s foreign policy.
The statement places India among a growing number of countries opposing Israel’s move to recognize Somaliland, a self-declared administration that broke away from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognized by the international community. Israel became the first United Nations member state to formally recognize Somaliland late last month, prompting strong diplomatic backlash.
India emphasized that its position reflects both its historical ties with Somalia—dating back to Somalia’s independence in 1960—and its broader commitment to opposing unilateral changes to internationally recognized borders. New Delhi has consistently supported Somalia through development cooperation, education, maritime security initiatives, and multilateral diplomacy, particularly at the United Nations.
The African Union, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the European Union have also reiterated support for Somalia’s territorial integrity following Israel’s announcement. Analysts note that India’s stance aligns with positions taken by many African and Global South countries that view border sovereignty as a foundational principle of international order.
India’s rejection of Israel’s Somaliland recognition adds further diplomatic weight to Somalia’s campaign to safeguard its unity, reinforcing that respect for sovereignty remains a red line for major regional and global powers.
