• China criticizes Israel's recognition of Somaliland, calling for respect for Somalia's sovereignty.
• The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that Somaliland is part of Somalia.
• China urges Somaliland to cease separatist activities.
• Israel is the first nation to recognize Somaliland, prompting international backlash.
• Multiple nations, including Turkey, have condemned Israel's move.

China has expressed strong opposition to Israel's recent recognition of Somaliland, which Israel became the first country to formally acknowledge as independent. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared that "no country should encourage or support other countries' internal separatist forces for its own selfish interests," affirming its commitment to Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, which it views as fundamental issues in maintaining regional stability, according to SCMP, AA, and Reuters.

Lin Jian, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasized that the situation regarding Somaliland is an internal matter for Somalia that must be resolved by its people. He called on countries outside the region to refrain from interfering. China's comments reflect a broader international concern regarding the potential repercussions of recognizing Somaliland, particularly amidst fears it could incite further separatism, according to SCMP and Reuters.

The decision by Israel to formalize recognition of Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been widely recognized internationally, has led to a chorus of condemnation from various nations and organizations. The Somali government considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory, viewing any international engagement with the region as a violation of its sovereignty, according to AA and Reuters.

China's staunch position on this matter is further complicated by its interests in Taiwan, as officials have drawn parallels between Somaliland's situation and Taiwan's status—both being regions China views as integral to its territory. This stance indicates that China's opposition to Somaliland's formal recognition may not only reflect concerns over territorial integrity but also its broader geopolitical adversaries at play, according to SCMP and Reuters.