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.
On January 13, 2026, Somaliland’s authorities took to the public stage to clarify their position regarding the port of Berbera, asserting it as an integral part of their sovereign territory. The Somaliland government emphasized that Somalia possesses no legal, administrative, or practical control over Berbera or its surrounding areas, offering a robust rebuttal to Somalia’s claims.
This declaration was a direct response to Somalia’s Council of Ministers decision on January 12, 2026, to annul all bilateral agreements with the United Arab Emirates. These agreements encompass significant matters, including those regarding the ports in Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo, as well as essential security and defense collaborations. Somalia’s government cited credible reports alleging actions that undermine its national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.
Somalia’s Annulment amid Rising Tensions
Somalia’s recent move has emerged in a context of political tension alongside noteworthy international developments, especially following Israel’s historic recognition of Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025. This recognition marked the first official acknowledgment of Somaliland’s independence by any nation, adding weight to Somaliland’s claims of sovereignty.
The situation has been further complicated by reports that a Yemeni separatist leader transited through Berbera on his way to Abu Dhabi, stirring concerns in Mogadishu about the implications for Somalia’s territorial unity. In the face of these actions, Somaliland officials have dismissed Somalia’s annulment as inconsequential. A senior minister even took to social media to assert, “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 Berbera port, strategically located on the Gulf of Aden, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to a pivotal partnership with the UAE-based company DP World. Under a significant agreement established in 2016, DP World secured a 30-year concession to develop and operate the port, positioning it as a regional trade and logistics hub with investments exceeding USD 442 million.
This partnership has not only modernized the port facilities but has also empowered Somaliland with a significant ownership stake. The collaboration includes infrastructure enhancements, the creation of a free trade zone, and improved connectivity for landlocked neighboring countries, thereby expanding economic opportunities across the region.
In its official statement, Somaliland reaffirmed the legality, validity, and enforceability of the agreements made with the UAE. It highlighted that these pacts, signed by recognized constitutional authorities, aim to foster economic growth, trade, infrastructure development, and overall stability in the Horn of Africa. Importantly, Somaliland pointed out that Somalia is neither a party to these agreements nor acts as a guarantor, making any attempt to nullify or change them inconsistent with established international legal principles.
Gratitude to UAE Leadership
In light of these developments, the government of Somaliland expressed its profound gratitude to the UAE and its leadership, particularly to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Somaliland acknowledges the UAE’s longstanding commitment to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in both Somaliland and the broader regional context.
This ongoing narrative sheds light on the enduring rift that has marked the relationship between Mogadishu and Hargeisa since Somaliland declared its independence in 1991 following the disintegration of the former unified Somali state. While Somalia remains steadfast in its assertion of territorial integrity, Somaliland points to its effective governance, relative stability, and strong international partnerships as evidence of its distinct status as a sovereign entity.
Somaliland has reiterated its commitment to fostering international cooperation built on mutual respect, non-interference, and adherence to global legal standards—principles that it argues have been overlooked by the actions of the Somali government.