HARGEISA, SOMALILAND– Somaliland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a series of strategic agreements following President Abdirahman Cirro’s official visit to the Gulf nation. The agreements aim to enhance diplomatic, economic, security, and trade relations, marking a significant step in Somaliland-UAE cooperation.
The UAE will upgrade its diplomatic presence in Somaliland by elevating its office in Hargeisa to a full embassy. Additionally, three major international airports will be constructed in Hargeisa, Borama, and Burao, while a $3 billion railway project will be developed along the Berbera Corridor, linking Somaliland with Ethiopia to boost trade and investment.
As part of security cooperation, the UAE will train 15,000 Somaliland security personnel, including army, police, and intelligence units. A new naval base in Berbera will soon be operational, jointly managed by Somaliland’s naval forces (RSL) and the UAE.
In the economic sector, 11 bilateral agreements and 5 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed, covering trade, banking, agriculture, logistics, and cultural exchange.
A formal press release is expected on Thursday, January 30, 2025, detailing the agreements. Analysts see this as a major milestone in Somaliland’s international engagement and development strategy.
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