Somalia has officially announced the cancellation of all existing agreements with the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant shift in diplomatic and regional relations. The decision follows months of political tension and disagreements over security cooperation, port management, and foreign military involvement within Somali territory.
The announcement triggered public reactions in several areas, with crowds gathering and waving national flags to express support for Somalia’s sovereignty and independence. Government officials stated that the move was taken to protect national interests and reaffirm the authority of the federal state over all international partnerships. According to officials, any future cooperation with foreign countries will be subject to stricter oversight and full transparency.
Relations between Somalia and the UAE have been strained in recent years, particularly over military training programs, financial dealings, and the presence of foreign-backed security units. Somali authorities have repeatedly emphasized that security assistance must be coordinated through the federal government rather than regional administrations, a point that has been at the center of past disputes.
The cancellation of agreements may have broader implications for regional geopolitics in the Horn of Africa, where Gulf nations have expanded their influence through port investments, military bases, and development aid. Analysts note that Somalia’s decision reflects a growing push by African states to reassess foreign partnerships and assert greater control over internal affairs.
The UAE has not issued a detailed public response, though diplomatic sources suggest discussions may continue through regional and international channels. Meanwhile, Somalia’s government has reassured citizens and international partners that it remains open to constructive cooperation based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and international law.
Observers will be closely watching how this decision reshapes Somalia’s foreign relations and security landscape in the coming months.
