Kenya has apologised to the Federal Republic of Somalia a day after its envoy walked out of a meeting hosted by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs through a statement dated Tuesday, June 14, regretted the embarrassment and inconvenience that may have resulted from the event.
Kenya stated that it did not intend to violate the sovereignty of the neighbouring country by recognising Somaliland at the event.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kenya presents its compliments to the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia and wishes to thank the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia for the Note Verbal, Ref: EFRS/467/N/22, dated 14th June, 2022 and for drawing the Ministry's attention to the presence of Somaliland's standard among the flags of nations at the Annual Diplomatic event.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs regrets the inadvertent and inappropriate presence of the flag of Somaliland at the Annual Diplomatic Function. The Ministry further wishes to reaffirm its recognition of the sovereignty of one Federal Somali Government and the integrity of the Federal Somali State. Any inconvenience or embarrassment caused is deeply regretted," read the MFA statement in part.
Further, Kenya expressed willingness to restore the trust that may have been lost as the country looks forward to fostering good relations with Somalia in the future.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kenya avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Nairobi the assurances of its highest consideration."
The apology comes after Somalia demanded an explanation from the Kenyan government regarding the recognition of Somaliland during the diplomatic event.
Somalia stated that Kenya's recognition of Somaliland, which broke away from Somalia in 1991, was a violation of its sovereignty.
However, Somaliland through a statement, hit out at Somalia expressing disappointment over the actions of its envoy.
"The Ambassador of Somalia left due to his views on the participation of the Republic of Somaliland at the event. Having said that, this clearly demonstrates the hatred and long-term enmity of Somalia towards the Republic of Somaliland and its people.
"The Republic of Somaliland is a sovereign, independent and democratic country that aspires to live in peace and tranquility with our neighboring countries, that includes Somalia," read the statement in part.
