Somalia has entered into a military cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, marking another step in Mogadishu’s efforts to bolster alliances in the face of escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.

The memorandum was signed by Somalia’s Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz during a meeting in Riyadh. The pact is designed to enhance defense and military collaboration, covering shared interests that align with both nations’ strategic goals.

Details of the agreement remain limited, but it follows a similar defense accord Somalia reached with Qatar last month, which emphasized military training, knowledge sharing, capability building, and regional security enhancements.

These diplomatic moves come against the backdrop of increased regional friction, particularly after Israel’s unprecedented recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Somali officials have expressed concerns over potential Israeli military presence in the breakaway region, viewing it as a threat to stability and vowing to oppose any such developments.

Somalia has stated it will not permit foreign bases that could endanger its sovereignty or neighboring countries, promising to defend against perceived intrusions.

In related developments, Somalia recently terminated all pacts with the United Arab Emirates, accusing the Gulf nation of actions that compromise its unity and independence. This decision aligns with reports of UAE involvement in facilitating Israel’s engagement with Somaliland.

The UAE, which has maintained significant economic and security links in the area, including port operations, has faced criticism amid broader regional disputes, including tensions with Saudi Arabia over issues in Yemen and Sudan.

Saudi Arabia has condemned foreign meddling in Sudan, highlighting the influx of weapons and fighters prolonging conflict there, without specifying involved parties.

These alliances underscore Somalia’s push for stronger partnerships to safeguard its interests amid complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.

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The statement followed growing international debate after Israel announced its recognition of the breakaway region. Somaliland declared independence more than three decades ago but remains unrecognised by the international community.

UK officials said Britain continues to support a unified Somalia and urged diplomatic engagement to address regional challenges.

The UK position aligns with that of several other nations that have expressed concern that recognising Somaliland could undermine stability in the Horn of Africa.

Somalia has welcomed the UK’s stance, saying it reinforces international law and respect for sovereignty.

The issue has gained renewed attention following discussions at the United Nations Security Council, where member states expressed differing views on recognition and self determination.

The UK said it remains committed to working with Somalia and regional partners to promote peace, security and development.

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An American envoy compared Israel’s recognition of Somaliland to international acknowledgements of Palestinian statehood, accusing some Security Council members of applying double standards.

The remarks came after an emergency meeting was convened following Israel’s announcement recognising the breakaway Somali territory. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but is not internationally recognised as a sovereign state.

The US representative argued that recognition decisions are sovereign political acts and said criticism directed at Israel ignored similar precedents elsewhere in international diplomacy.

Several Security Council members rejected the comparison and reiterated their support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, warning that recognition of Somaliland could destabilise the Horn of Africa.

The debate highlighted divisions within the council over self determination, sovereignty and recognition of breakaway regions.

Israel has said its decision was based on strategic and diplomatic considerations. Somalia has strongly opposed the move, calling it a violation of its sovereignty.

No resolution was adopted during the meeting.

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Buildings in the city centre were lit in blue and white, while residents filled the streets in scenes that quickly spread across social media.

Somaliland has operated as a self-governing entity since 1991, and Israel’s recognition is being viewed as a potentially significant geopolitical  development in the Horn of Africa. For many residents, the moment symbolised hope that broader international recognition may now follow. Image of the Day.

Cour-tesy: Ynet

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