South Sudan backs AU–IGAD stance on Somalia’s sovereignty

JUBA – The Government of the Republic of South Sudan has reaffirmed its full support for the positions of the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) regarding the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

South Sudan emphasised its commitment to regional peace, stability, and respect for international law, underscoring the importance of safeguarding Somalia’s independence and national unity.

In a statement seen by Sudan Post on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia within its internationally recognised borders.

“The position of the Government of the Republic of South Sudan is aligned with the provisions of the regional treaties, the African Union Constitutive Act, and international laws and treaties,” it said.

Last year, South Sudan formally rejected the recognition of Somaliland during a weekend diplomatic phone call between senior officials in Juba and Mogadishu, reaffirming its support for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

This position was conveyed on Saturday during a telephone conversation between Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, and South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Monday Semaya Kumba.

In a statement issued by Mogadishu, the two ministers discussed solidarity with Somalia and expressed their “unequivocal rejection of any actions that undermine the country’s territorial integrity.”

They emphasised the importance of upholding international law and safeguarding Somalia’s national sovereignty, placing South Sudan among the countries opposing Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland.

The call between the two diplomats comes amid regional and international outrage over a controversial announcement on the status of Somaliland by Israel on Boxing Day.