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.