Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Somali Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources issued a public apology on Saturday over a controversial map displayed during the yesterday’s arrival of the Turkish seismic survey vessel, Oruç Reis, in Mogadishu.

The map, intended to outline areas for gas exploration, sparked backlash from Puntland and Hirshabelle states, which raised concerns about implied territorial divisions.

During a press conference in Mogadishu, General Director of the Ministry, Mohamed Hashi Arabay, acknowledged the “technical mistake” and assured the public that there was no intent to cause division or confusion.

“We apologize for the oversight, especially to Puntland and Hirshabelle. It was a technical error, and we did not mean to divide the country,” Arabay stated.

The apology followed strong reactions from Puntland and Hirshabelle. Puntland’s President Said Abdullahi Deni voiced his opposition to the map, noting that while Mudug was historically one region, it has since been divided between Puntland and Galmudug states.

Deni clarified, “There is no dispute between the two states,” and called the map’s presentation “unfortunate.”

Hirshabelle State expressed frustration, hinting at a potential withdrawal from the upcoming National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting in Mogadishu as a response to the map’s release.

The map, which was shared widely on social media, intended to show exploration areas for the Oruç Reis, has underscored the sensitive nature of territorial boundaries in Somalia.

The Ministry’s apology aims to defuse tensions as the federal government prepares for crucial discussions at the NCC meeting, which could further shape the country’s approach to resource management and state relations.