Garowe – The Minister of Information of Puntland State, Mr. Mahmoud Eidid Dirir, stated that Puntland’s position regarding the unity of Somalia has not changed, stressing that the state will not support the secession of Somaliland.

Speaking to the press in Garowe, the minister said that Somalia is currently facing international threats due to what he described as weak leadership at the national level. He noted that foreign powers are competing over Somalia, emphasizing the need for leadership capable of uniting the country.

Minister Dirir underscored that without strong and unifying leadership, Somalia cannot achieve political stability, security, or meaningful development. He called on Somali leaders and stakeholders to prioritize national unity and put the country’s long-term interests above political disagreements.

The minister warned against foreign interference in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa, noting that such involvement could negatively impact the country’s stability and development. He stressed that external influence often weakens national institutions and fuels internal divisions.

He specifically referred to the roles of countries including Turkey, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Egypt, stating that Somalia needs internal unity and cooperation to counterbalance the influence of these foreign actors.

Dirir reaffirmed that Puntland supports the unity of Somalia and emphasized the importance of national cohesion to prevent foreign interference. However, despite Puntland’s declaration of support for Somalia’s unity, the Information Minister did not comment on or condemn Israel’s move to recognize Somaliland. While the Federal Government and other regional states have condemned Israeli interference, Puntland and Jubbaland both of which have political disputes with the Federal Government—remain the only entities that have not clearly stated their positions on the matter.