Somalia’s government has announced the annulment of all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, including major port deals and defence and security cooperation accords, accusing Abu Dhabi of actions that undermine the country’s sovereignty.
In a statement issued on Monday, Somalia’s Council of Ministers said the decision was based on what it described as “credible reports and compelling evidence” of hostile activities threatening the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence.
The annulment affects all agreements and partnerships related to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso and Kismayo, as well as bilateral defence and security cooperation arrangements between the two countries.
The move follows heightened tensions after Somalia launched an investigation last week into allegations that the UAE helped a separatist leader escape from Yemen through Somali territory. The claims were raised by the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen, with Mogadishu warning at the time that such an act, if proven, would amount to a serious violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.
Relations between Somalia and the UAE have also been strained by Abu Dhabi’s close economic and security ties with Somaliland, Somalia’s self-declared breakaway region. Central to that relationship is a $442 million investment by Dubai-based logistics firm DP World to develop and operate the Port of Berbera in Somaliland. DP World declined to comment on the Somali government’s announcement.
Regional dynamics have further complicated the situation. Last month, Israel became the first country to officially recognise Somaliland’s independence, a move that, according to an Axios report citing Israeli officials, was facilitated by the UAE. The development has heightened concerns in Mogadishu about external influence in Somali affairs.
Despite the sweeping decision, Somalia’s government said it remains open to international cooperation, provided it is grounded in respect for the country’s unity and sovereignty.
The UAE’s foreign ministry had not responded to requests for comment at the time of the announcement.
Melissa Enoch
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