Somalia Cancelled UAE Agreements to Protect Sovereignty, says President

The president stressed that Somalia initially entered into relations with the UAE “in good faith,” but said continued cooperation had become untenable after repeated warnings were ignored. He described the cancellation as the result of “deep evaluation and careful consideration” by the government.

While the president did not detail specific violations, he emphasized that the agreements posed a risk to Somalia’s unity and statehood, prompting the government to act in defence of national interests

President Hassan Sheikh also linked the decision to broader foreign policy principles, stating that Somalia welcomes international partnerships based on mutual respect, equality, and transparency, but will not hesitate to withdraw from agreements that undermine its sovereignty.

“When it becomes clear that certain agreements burden our national interests, it is our duty to take action,” he said.

The Somali government sought to reassure citizens that the cancellation would not negatively affect their daily lives, pledging to protect economic stability, security, and public welfare. The president said the state would take full responsibility to ensure that Somalis continue to experience political and economic independence.