Senior officials from the United Arab Emirates and Somalia held a high-level meeting this week to discuss security cooperation and the potential immediate withdrawal of Emirati forces from Somali territory. The talks come amid shifting regional dynamics and renewed focus on Somali sovereignty and long-term stability.
According to diplomatic sources, the discussions centered on reassessing the UAE’s military presence in Somalia, which has been part of broader counterterrorism and training efforts in recent years. Somali representatives emphasized the importance of strengthening national institutions and ensuring that all security operations align with the country’s evolving defense strategy. The Emirati side reiterated its stated commitment to supporting stability in the Horn of Africa while respecting Somalia’s independence and internal priorities.
The meeting, held in a formal and closed-door setting, also addressed future avenues for cooperation beyond military engagement. Economic development, humanitarian assistance, and capacity-building initiatives were reportedly key topics, signaling a possible transition from direct security involvement to civilian-focused partnership programs.
Observers note that any immediate withdrawal would mark a significant development in Somalia’s security landscape. While international partnerships remain critical in the fight against militant groups, Somali leaders have increasingly called for greater national control over security operations. A carefully coordinated transition, analysts say, will be essential to avoid creating power vacuums or destabilizing key regions.
No official timeline has been publicly confirmed following the talks. However, both sides described the discussions as constructive and ongoing, suggesting that further consultations will take place in the coming weeks. The outcome of these negotiations is expected to have broader implications for regional security cooperation and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
