China condemns Israeli recognition of Somaliland after Taiwan becomes first country to welcome move

China opposes any attempt to split territories in Somalia, the foreign ministry says, affirming Chinese support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the East African country, after Israel formally recognized the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state.

“No country should encourage or support other countries’ internal separatist forces for its own selfish interests,” ministry spokesperson Lin Jian tells reporters at a regular press conference, urging authorities in Somaliland to stop “separatist activities and collusion with external forces.”

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, which broke away from war-ravaged Somalia in 1991, has been widely condemned. It has been welcomed, however, by Taiwan, which China views as one of its provinces rather than as an independent country.

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