Indonesia Rejects Somaliland Recognition, Backs Somalia's Unity

Indonesia has firmly stated it will not recognize any "illegitimate" entities that undermine the unity of Somalia. The strong declaration of support for Somalia's territorial integrity comes as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visits the breakaway region of Somaliland. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991. However, no country officially recognizes it as a sovereign state. Indonesia's foreign ministry emphasized that a unified Somalia is crucial for regional stability. The timing of Indonesia's statement is significant. It directly coincides with the high-level Israeli visit to Somaliland's capital, Hargeisa. Israel has not formally recognized Somaliland either. Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, is a consistent supporter of Palestinian statehood. It has no formal diplomatic ties with Israel. The country's latest remarks reinforce its longstanding foreign policy of supporting sovereignty and unity in the Islamic world.