The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ali Mohamed Omar (Ali Balcad), has strongly affirmed the government’s stance on the unity and sovereignty of the country, stating that Somalia is pursuing a policy of peace based on dialogue, but will not accept any pressure or interference that threatens the country’s territorial integrity.
In an interview with Aljazeera’s Al-Masaiya program, Mubasher, the minister said that the news related to the Jeffrey Epstein documents shed light on foreign interference and activities that are undermining the talks between the federal government and Somaliland.
He pointed out that there are communications and efforts by international companies that, through unofficial channels, sought to push for the recognition of Somaliland as an independent country.
Ali Balcad stressed that Somalia’s policy towards Somaliland is based on dialogue and compromise, as Somalis are “one people, one language and one religion.” He added that the secessionist efforts do not represent the general will of the people, and that the recognition of Somaliland will not bring peace, but may create instability that will affect Somalia and the entire African continent.
The minister stated that Somalis will never negotiate under pressure and intimidation.
Meanwhile, the minister spoke about Somalia’s position towards Israel, especially after it supported the recognition of Somaliland. He said that Israel is obliged to respect the unity and independence of Somalia, noting that Mogadishu will not hold any talks with anyone who violates the country’s national identity.
Minister Ali Balcad also accused Israel of planning to displace Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to Somaliland, which he described as a plan that threatens security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. He called on the international community to urgently prevent any such move.
Speaking about the security situation in the region, the minister said that regional and international discussions are underway to strengthen stability in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa, as they are important routes for international trade and shipping. He warned that a security crisis in the region would have widespread economic and security implications.
Finally, the minister made it clear that Somalia would not allow a foreign military base to be established on its territory without the consent of the federal government. He noted that any move to introduce a foreign military presence would be a direct violation of the country’s sovereignty, and the government would take all necessary measures to prevent this.
The minister concluded his speech by saying that Somalia would further strengthen its cooperation with countries that support its unity and independence, especially Saudi Arabia and Turkey, stressing that stability in Somalia is the backbone of overall stability in the region.
