Somalia has formalized a defence agreement with Saudi Arabia, enhancing military relations as the Horn of Africa increasingly becomes a focal point for strategic competition among Gulf nations. The signing took place on Monday, and the agreement signals growing military ties between the two countries. The Horn of Africa is geographically significant, lying along a crucial maritime route between the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal, attracting the interest of various Gulf states.

Details of the Agreement

The pact was signed by Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman during a military exhibition in Riyadh. The Somali Defence Ministry noted that the agreement aims to bolster defence and military collaboration, encompassing various mutual interests. However, specific details regarding the contents of the pact remain limited. It is reported that the agreement is intended to focus on training, technical assistance, and defence support as Somalia works to enhance the capabilities of its National Armed Forces.

Context of the Military Cooperation

The defence agreement comes after Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared republic that separated from Somalia in 1991, an action that Somalia’s government has deemed an act of interference that threatens regional stability. Somalia has indicated that its need for enhanced defence partnerships is partly driven by concerns over security in the Red Sea and diplomatic engagements related to Somaliland.

Regional Shifts and International Involvement

The context of these developments includes a growing Emirati influence in Somaliland, where the Emirati company DP World has invested in the Berbera port, causing tensions with the Somali federal government. Somalia has recently annulled its defence agreements with the UAE, aligning itself instead with allies that recognize its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This shift is critical given the ongoing political tensions in the region.

Fractured Alliances and Broader Implications

The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once strong allies, has recently become strained over various regional conflicts, particularly in Yemen and Sudan. Their alliance has shown signs of fracture, affecting geopolitical dynamics in the region. The Somali administration has characterized the new agreement with Saudi Arabia as a framework for collaboration rather than a mutual defence treaty, with future implementation likely to involve further arrangements.

Saudi Military Presence in the Region

Saudi Arabia continues to be a significant player in regional security, having previously entered a defence agreement with Pakistan last year. By aligning with Somalia through this new agreement, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a central actor in the Horn of Africa, particularly at a time when sovereignty disputes and international involvement are under close examination.