UK says it will not recognize Somaliland as an independent state

The United Kingdom has made clear that it does not recognize Somaliland, a region that unilaterally declared independence from Somalia, as a sovereign state. London reaffirmed its firm support for Somalia's sovereignty and its internationally recognized territorial integrity.

The United Kingdom has made clear that it does not recognize Somaliland, a region that unilaterally declared independence from Somalia, as a sovereign state. London reaffirmed its firm support for Somalia’s sovereignty and its internationally recognized territorial integrity.

In a statement issued on Monday, the British government emphasized that Somaliland is regarded as part of Somalia and that preserving the country’s unity remains a core principle of UK foreign policy.

Israel recently became the first country to formally recognize the self-declared “Republic of Somaliland” as an independent state, a move that sparked international debate. However, many other countries have declined to follow suit.

China was among those states, announcing on Monday that it does not recognize Somaliland’s independence, aligning with the broader international position in support of Somalia’s territorial integrity.