By Zakaria Hassan - Reporter
Mogadishu, 21 August 2026 — Somalia’s federal government has reaffirmed that its official position on Cyprus remains unchanged after a message by newly elected House Speaker Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur in which he referred to Northern Cyprus as a “Republic.”
The reference came in a thank-you message after the speaker of the Northern Cyprus parliament, Ziya Ozturkler, congratulated Nur on his election.
The wording sparked discussion on social media, given Somalia’s longstanding support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.
In a statement, the government said its policy on Cyprus remains based on the United Nations Charter and relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions, including Resolutions 541 (1983) and 550 (1984).
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The personal message recently circulated does not represent Somalia’s official foreign policy and should not be interpreted as a decision to change the country’s position, the government said.
The Federal Government of Somalia reiterated that it does not recognize a separate administration in northern Cyprus and reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.
The government also said no official decision has been made to change its foreign policy on the Cyprus issue.
Somalia continues to support a peaceful and lasting settlement through U.N.-led negotiations, in accordance with international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, the statement added.