Mogadishu — Somalia’s federal government on Friday defended its decision to cancel defense and security agreements with the United Arab Emirates, saying the move was taken in line with the law to protect the country’s sovereignty, territorial unity, and the safety of its citizens.
Speaking to state media, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Daud Aweys Jama said the termination applies only to military and security cooperation arrangements between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi. He stressed that the decision does not affect diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Aweys said the government concluded that parts of the security cooperation had gradually worked against Somalia’s national interests. According to the minister, some external actions linked to the agreements were having a destabilizing effect on internal security and public welfare, outweighing the benefits they were meant to provide.
“The decision was taken to protect the dignity, security, and territorial integrity of the Somali nation,” Aweys said, adding that the government reached its conclusion after careful assessment of the long-term consequences of continued cooperation.
He was keen to draw a distinction between the cancellation of defense agreements and Somalia’s wider relationship with the UAE. Aweys confirmed that embassies and consular services in both countries remain open and that diplomatic and political communication continues as normal.
“This is not a break in relations,” he said, noting that Somalia values diplomatic engagement built on mutual respect and clear boundaries.
The minister said the move reflects Somalia’s broader foreign policy approach, which is based on transparency, non-interference in domestic affairs, and respect for national unity. He added that any partnership must recognize Somalia as a single, sovereign state governed by one constitutional authority.
“Somalia is open to cooperation with any partner that respects our independence and unity,” Aweys said. “Respect for sovereignty is the basis of all our international relations.”
The decision comes at a time of increased political tension in the Horn of Africa and growing scrutiny of foreign involvement in Somalia’s security sector. Federal officials have previously accused some external actors of bypassing central authorities and engaging directly with regional administrations, moves they say undermine national cohesion.
Despite ending the security agreements with the UAE, the government said it remains open to future defense and security partnerships, provided any new arrangements comply fully with Somali law and respect the country’s constitutional order and sovereignty.
Officials say the move is part of a wider effort to strengthen federal authority and ensure that all foreign partnerships align with Somalia’s long-term stability and national interests.