New York, US — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud joined world leaders at the Global Conference on the Recognition of Palestinian Statehood, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, underscoring Somalia’s longstanding solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Somalia, a founding member of the Arab League, was among the first countries to formally recognize Palestine as a state in 1988, following Algeria’s recognition earlier that year. President Mohamud highlighted this historic position, stressing that Somalia’s stance has remained consistent across decades and governments, rooted in principles of justice, self-determination, and solidarity with oppressed peoples.
“Somalia has always stood firmly with Palestine, not only as a matter of political alignment but as a moral obligation,” the president said, addressing delegates. He reiterated Mogadishu’s commitment to supporting Palestine’s rightful place among the family of sovereign states and emphasized the importance of renewed international pressure for a two-state solution.
The conference brought together global leaders, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations to galvanize momentum for the recognition of Palestinian statehood amid growing international calls for an end to the decades-long occupation.
Somalia’s participation reinforced its voice in international diplomacy, demonstrating that despite its own domestic challenges, the country remains engaged on issues of global justice and solidarity. The move also reaffirms Somalia’s alignment with Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) positions, both of which continue to champion Palestinian rights.
By recalling its early recognition of Palestine and stressing its continued support, Somalia sent a strong message at the UN that the struggle for Palestinian statehood remains a priority issue for the international community.