Somalia’s government has annulled all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, including port concessions and defence and security cooperation, accusing Abu Dhabi of actions that undermine the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a statement issued on Monday, Somalia’s Council of Ministers said the decision followed what it described as credible reports and compelling evidence of hostile actions against the Horn of Africa nation’s political independence.
“This decision is based on credible reports and compelling evidence concerning hostile actions undermining national sovereignty, territorial unity, and the political independence of the country,” the council said.
The cancellation applies to all agreements and partnerships linked to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso and Kismayo, as well as bilateral security and defence cooperation agreements. The UAE foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Tensions between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi have escalated in recent weeks. Somalia said last week it had launched an investigation after the Saudi led coalition in Yemen alleged that the UAE had helped a Yemeni separatist leader leave the country via Somalia. Somali authorities warned at the time that, if confirmed, such an action would constitute a serious violation of national sovereignty.
The UAE has for years built strong economic and security ties in the region, particularly with Somalia’s self declared republic of Somaliland, which Mogadishu considers part of its territory. A key element of that relationship is a $442 million investment by Dubai based logistics firm DP World to develop and operate the Port of Berbera. DP World declined to comment on Somalia’s latest statement.
Diplomatic sensitivities have also increased following reports that Israel last month became the first country to formally recognise Somaliland’s independence, a move that Axios said was facilitated by Abu Dhabi, citing Israeli officials.
Despite the sharp move, Somalia signalled it is not closing the door to future partnerships. The Council of Ministers said the country remains open to cooperation that is founded on recognition of Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.
