Turkey stated that it prevented Somaliland from being recognized by the United Kingdom in 2012.
Al Jasiira News
Former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu stated that in 2012–2013, when some Western countries, such as the United Kingdom, intended to recognize Somaliland, the Turkish government opposed the plan to divide Somalia. He emphasized that he and his government organized a meeting in Ankara between the leaders of Somaliland and Somalia at that time, to halt that plan and to show the world that dialogue and unity were ongoing.
The Ankara meeting was an effort to prevent Somaliland from being recognized independently, and at the same time to hold discussions to reach a political solution. At that time, a joint communique was issued, reaffirming dialogue between Somaliland and Somalia and the continuation of reconciliation efforts.
Davutoğlu described the recognition of Somaliland as potentially an “alarm” or an important global warning, especially when Israel announced in 2025 that it recognized Somaliland — which he said was part of a broader strategy to fragment Muslim countries and contribute to the division of Somalia.
He suggested rapid diplomatic steps, such as:
Inviting the leaders of Somalia and Somaliland to Turkey for face-to-face meetings.
Appointing special representatives for the region to continue the dialogue.
Cooperating with countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt to support Somalia’s unity.
The essence of the official’s statement was that in 2012, the UK had told them it would recognize Somaliland, describing it as a safe and developed place with no terrorism. This was rejected, and dialogue between Somaliland and Somalia was organized to show the world and the UK that Somaliland desired unity and that the issue could be resolved. Therefore, his statement implied that Somaliland had been “misled” or “outmaneuvered,” and the dialogue successfully pushed back against recognition. The cover-up by Turkey’s intervention would strengthen the chances for future dialogue between the two parties.
