Monday 19-Jun 2026 {HMC} Somalia and Qatar on Monday signed a defense cooperation agreement aimed at deepening military ties and expanding security collaboration, a move that comes days after Mogadishu formally ended its security and ports partnerships with the United Arab Emirates.
The agreement was signed in Doha by Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani, according to officials from both governments.
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The pact focuses on military training, the exchange of expertise, development of defense capabilities and broader security cooperation, officials said. It is intended to strengthen Somalia’s armed forces and contribute to regional security and stability.
Somali officials described the agreement as a reinforcement of the strategic relationship between Mogadishu and Doha, reflecting what they said is a shared commitment to long-term defense and security cooperation.
The signing marks a notable shift in Somalia’s regional security partnerships. Earlier this month, the federal government terminated its defense and security agreements with the United Arab Emirates, citing alleged violations of Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and political independence. The decision followed mounting tensions between the two countries over security arrangements and broader regional alignments.
Qatar has emerged as a close political and security ally of Somalia in recent years, providing diplomatic backing and support for state-building efforts. Doha was also among the first countries to reject Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, aligning with Mogadishu’s position on territorial integrity.
Somali officials say the new defense agreement is part of a broader effort to diversify security partnerships while ensuring that cooperation is conducted strictly through the federal government and within Somalia’s constitutional framework.
The deal comes as Somalia continues to battle al-Shabab insurgents and seeks to professionalize its armed forces amid a changing regional security landscape. Officials said further details on implementation and joint programs under the agreement would be announced in due course.
Source Hiiraan Online
