The Egyptian government has strongly condemned Somaliland’s move to open what it called an “embassy” in the occupied city of Jerusalem, describing the move as illegal and in violation of international law.
A statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said Cairo “strongly opposes” the opening of the facility, which it said would undermine the legal and historical status of Jerusalem.
Egypt also reiterated its position that East Jerusalem is Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, saying that any move to change its legal status is “absolutely null and void.”
The Egyptian government also reaffirmed its support for the unity and territorial integrity of Somalia, warning against any unilateral move that undermines Somalia’s sovereignty.
This comes after the Somali government issued a statement on the opening of the center, describing Somaliland’s move as “legally null and void” and a violation of the country’s unity and the decisions of international organizations.
Israel and Somaliland had previously announced an agreement to “formally recognize each other” and establish full diplomatic relations, including plans to open embassies and cooperate in the fields of agriculture, health, technology and economic development.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who visited Somaliland earlier this year, said the new relationship was “not against anyone in particular,” but rather to advance the interests of both sides.