Jeddah: Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, reaffirmed the steadfast support of the OIC for the Federal Republic of Somalia, its territorial integrity, and sovereignty over its entire territory. He stressed the importance of adopting a unified, clear, and firm Islamic position in this regard.

According to Qatar News Agency, these remarks were delivered during the opening session of the 22nd extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC, held in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The session was convened to address developments in the Federal Republic of Somalia following the recognition by Israel, the occupying power, of the so-called "Somaliland" region as an independent state.

The Secretary-General noted that the extraordinary ministerial session was convened at a very delicate and sensitive time to discuss serious developments affecting Somalia's sovereignty. This follows Israel's announcement of recognition of the so-called "Somaliland" region as an independent state, a move seen as a violation of international law and a threat to regional security and stability.

He explained that the meeting follows up on the extraordinary session of the Executive Committee with open membership at the level of permanent representatives, held at the OIC General Secretariat on January 1, 2025. This reflects the shared concern over these developments.

Taha stressed the necessity of adopting a unified, clear, and firm Islamic position that supports Somalia, its territorial integrity, and sovereignty. This stance is based on the principles of the OIC Charter, international law, and relevant UN resolutions, while rejecting Israel's actions against Somalia's sovereignty and national unity, which are seen as violations of UN principles and a challenge to international consensus.