The Government of the Republic of Somaliland has issued a strong statement rejecting what it described as false claims by Somalia regarding authority over the port of Berbera and related international agreements.
In an official release on 13 January 2026, Somaliland authorities emphasised that Berbera forms an integral part of its sovereign territory. Somalia holds no legal, administrative or practical control over the port or the nation, the statement said.
The declaration directly responds to Somalia’s Council of Ministers decision on 12 January 2026 to annul all bilateral agreements with the United Arab Emirates, including those related to ports in Berbera, Bosaso and Kismayo, as well as security and defence cooperation. Mogadishu cited credible reports of actions undermining its national sovereignty, territorial unity and political independence.
Somalia’s annulment amid rising tensions
Somalia’s move follows Israel’s historic recognition of Somaliland as an independent state on 26 December 2025, the first by any nation. It also comes after reports that a Yemeni separatist leader transited through Berbera en route to Abu Dhabi.
Somaliland officials dismissed the announcement as having no practical impact. A senior minister posted on social media: “Somalia’s daydreaming changes nothing. Berbera is the birthplace of our president, and the UAE is a trusted friend of Somaliland. They invested in Berbera when others doubted us — today, everyone is talking about Berbera.”
Berbera port transformation through UAE partnership
The strategic Berbera port, a vital gateway on the Gulf of Aden, has been transformed through a major partnership with UAE-based DP World. Under a 2016 agreement, the company secured a 30-year concession to develop and operate the facility as a regional trade and logistics hub, with investments exceeding USD 442 million.
The deal includes Somaliland holding a significant stake, supporting infrastructure upgrades, a free zone and enhanced connectivity — particularly for landlocked neighbours.
Somaliland reaffirmed the full legality, validity and enforceability of these pacts, signed by its constitutional authorities to promote economic growth, trade, infrastructure development and stability in the Horn of Africa. It stressed that Somalia is not a party to the agreements, nor does it act as a guarantor, rendering any attempt to suspend or alter them inconsistent with international law principles.
Gratitude to UAE leadership
The government expressed deep gratitude to the UAE and its leadership, particularly His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for their longstanding commitment to peace, security and prosperity in Somaliland and the broader region.
This latest exchange highlights the enduring rift between Mogadishu and Hargeisa since Somaliland’s 1991 declaration of independence following the collapse of the unified Somali state. While Somalia insists on its territorial integrity, Somaliland points to its de facto governance, stability and international partnerships as evidence of its separate sovereignty.
Somaliland concluded by reiterating its dedication to international cooperation based on mutual respect, non-interference and adherence to global legal norms — principles it says Mogadishu’s actions disregard.
