Saudi Arabia affirms its support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, emphasizing the need to respect international laws and norms that guarantee the independence and territorial integrity of states. This reaffirmation is part of the Kingdom's foreign policy, which consistently seeks to promote stability in the Arab region and the Horn of Africa.
Context of tensions in the Horn of Africa
The Saudi position comes at a time when the Horn of Africa is witnessing political tensions and escalating conflicts, necessitating the support of brotherly and friendly nations for Somalia to preserve its national gains. The Kingdom has repeatedly expressed its concern regarding any unilateral actions that could infringe upon Somalia's sovereignty or destabilize security and stability in this vital region, calling on all parties to adhere to the principles of good neighborliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
The Saudi role and the umbrella of the Arab League
This stance is not new to Saudi diplomacy, as Riyadh has always led efforts to unify the Arab ranks. This support aligns with the resolutions of the League of Arab States, which has repeatedly affirmed its full solidarity with the Somali government in the face of external challenges. The Kingdom views Somalia's security as an integral part of Arab national security, making support for its stability a strategic priority in joint Arab policy.
The depth of historical and strategic relations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Somalia share deep-rooted historical ties spanning decades, characterized by joint cooperation across various political, economic, and humanitarian fields. The Kingdom has consistently provided development and relief support to the brotherly Somali people, contributing to reconstruction efforts and the building of state institutions. This ongoing support reflects the profound fraternal bonds between the two peoples and their leaderships.
The strategic importance of stability in Somalia
From a geopolitical perspective, Somalia's stability is of paramount importance to regional and international security, given its strategic location overlooking the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, and its control of the southern entrance to the Red Sea (the Bab el-Mandeb Strait). The Kingdom recognizes that any instability in this region could negatively impact international shipping and global energy security. Therefore, supporting Somalia's sovereignty and the extension of its government's authority over all its territory is a fundamental pillar for ensuring the security of waterways and protecting the economic interests of countries in the region and the world.
