Somalia cancels agreements with the UAE: Reasons and repercussions of the decision
In a significant development in diplomatic relations in the Horn of Africa, the Somali Federal Government announced on Monday a decisive decision to cancel all agreements signed with the United Arab Emirates. Somalia attributed this sudden move to what it described as "hostile actions that undermine national sovereignty," indicating escalating tensions between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi.
Details of the government decision
An official statement issued by the Somali Cabinet, and carried by international news agencies, stated that "after a careful and comprehensive assessment of recent developments, and within the framework of the state's exercise of its constitutional authority to preserve the country's independence, the Cabinet has decided to cancel all agreements signed with the United Arab Emirates." The statement clarified that this cancellation specifically includes bilateral security and defense cooperation agreements, thus ending a chapter of military cooperation between the two countries.
General context and historical background
This decision cannot be viewed in isolation from the political tensions that have gripped the region in recent years. Relations between the federal government in Mogadishu and some regional states have always been delicate, particularly regarding direct dealings with Somali regions without consulting the central government. Somalia, which is gradually recovering from decades of instability, seeks to reassert its full control over its political and sovereign decision-making, rejecting any encroachments that could marginalize the federal government's role in managing the country's foreign and security affairs.
The position of the Somali presidency and territorial integrity
In a related context, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud affirmed that the territorial integrity of Somalia is a red line and non-negotiable. In his recent speeches, the President indicated that the Federal Government is undertaking intensive diplomatic and legal efforts to counter any foreign interference that threatens the country's independence. In a message to the Somali people, the President explained that the government is working in close coordination with its international allies to prevent any violation of sovereignty, emphasizing that solutions to internal problems must be found within the framework of a unified state, while expressing a willingness to listen to and address the concerns of different regions politically.
Strategic importance and expected impact
This decision carries significant strategic implications given Somalia's geostrategic location at the entrance to the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. This shift is expected to impact alliances in the Horn of Africa, where multiple regional and international powers are vying for influence in this vital waterway. Domestically, the decision sends a strong message to the Somali public, affirming the political leadership's commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. Regionally, it could lead to a reshaping of the security and political landscape in East Africa.
