Somalia’s federal government has announced the termination of all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, ordering the Gulf state to withdraw from military bases and key infrastructure projects across the country.
In a statement released Monday, Information Minister Daud Aweis said the decision covers all agreements signed with UAE government institutions, affiliated entities, and regional administrations. The move marks a major shift in Somalia’s foreign and security relations.
Aweis confirmed that the termination applies to cooperation and contracts linked to Somalia’s main ports, including Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo. These facilities have played a strategic role in trade and regional security.
The Council of Ministers has also annulled all bilateral security and defense agreements between Somalia and the UAE. This includes military cooperation and the use of Somali facilities by Emirati forces.
According to the government, the decision follows reports and what it described as strong evidence of actions undermining Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity, and political independence. Officials said the measures were necessary to protect the country’s constitutional order.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the Red Sea and wider regional competition involving ports, military access, and maritime security. Somalia’s leadership has emphasized that all foreign partnerships must respect its territorial integrity.
