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Family photo of the 13th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul. PHOTO: AFP
ISLAMABAD:
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) along with 21 member states, including Pakistan, have strongly rejected Israel’s recent recognition of the ‘Somaliland’ region in Somalia, citing serious implications for peace and security in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
In a joint statement, Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Gambia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, Yemen and the OIC stressed that Israel’s decision constitutes a blatant disregard for international law and the United Nations Charter, which explicitly safeguards the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States.
The statement reiterated its unequivocal support for Somalia’s sovereignty, warning against any action that could undermine the country’s unity or territorial integrity, according to a report by Radio Pakistan.
The statement also rejects any potential link between Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian people, stressing that such measures are unacceptable in any form.
In this regard, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday spoke with Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali, reaffirming Pakistan’s full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.
During the conversation, Dar condemned any action aimed at harming Somalia and assured Pakistan’s continued assistance in raising Somalia’s concerns at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other multilateral forums.
The Somali Foreign Minister expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s unwavering support and highlighted the importance of the country’s support on international platforms. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to support Somalia, highlighting the enduring diplomatic relations between the two nations.
(WITH INPUT FROM THE APPLICATION)
