Somalia suspends port, defense and security deals with UAE

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s Cabinet on Monday approved a decision to suspend all port, defense, and security agreements with the United Arab Emirates, citing concerns over actions that it said undermine the country’s sovereignty, unit,y and constitutional order.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Federal Republic of Somalia on Jan. 12, 2026. According to an official statement, the suspension covers agreements related to the administration and management of ports and airports within Somali territory, including those linked to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo.

The Cabinet said the decision also applies to all bilateral agreements with the UAE concerning defense and security cooperation.

The Council of Ministers said the move followed assessments indicating actions that undermine Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity, and political independence.

Acting within its constitutional mandate, the Cabinet reaffirmed its responsibility to safeguard Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and constitutional order.

The government said it remains committed to the principles of state sovereignty, equality among nations, and adherence to the constitution, in line with Somalia’s obligations under the United Nations, African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Developmen,t and the Arab League.

The Council of Ministers emphasized the importance of national unity in defending Somalia’s core national interests.

GAROWE ONLINE