ADDIS ABABA - The African Union (AU) said it "rejects any recognition of Somaliland," following Israel's declaration that it viewed the self-declared region of Somalia as an independent nation.

The statement released on Friday said that the chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has taken note with deep concern of recent developments relating to Somaliland.

The chairperson of the AU Commission firmly rejects any initiative or action aimed at recognizing Somaliland as an independent entity, recalling that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia, read the statement.

Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the AU and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent, it added.