DOHA — The Federal Republic of Somalia and the State of Qatar have formalized a defense cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening military ties and security collaboration.
The pact was signed in Doha by Somalia’s Minister of Defense, H.E. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, and Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani.
“Today in Doha, Somalia and Qatar inked a historic defense cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening military ties and security collaboration between the two countries,” Minister Fiqi stated following the signing. “We are committed to developing our National Army’s capabilities.”
Scope of the Agreement
The new cooperation framework emphasizes military training, the sharing of security expertise, and the advancement of defense capabilities. Somali representatives highlighted that the agreement solidifies the strategic partnership between the two nations, demonstrating a mutual dedication to regional stability and enduring security collaboration as Mogadishu works to professionalize its armed forces.
Regional Re-alignment
The agreement comes at a pivotal moment, just days after the Federal Government terminated all bilateral agreements with the United Arab Emirates. The cancelled deals with Abu Dhabi had previously covered security cooperation, defense support, and the management of strategic ports.
In the wake of this diplomatic rupture, driven by allegations of infringements on Somalia’s sovereignty, Mogadishu appears to be pivoting toward other regional partners. The government is actively seeking support from Saudi Arabia and Qatar to fill the gaps left by the UAE’s withdrawal, particularly regarding the financial and logistical support previously provided to segments of the Somali security forces.
