Somaliland Rejects Somalia’s Claims Over Berbera Port.
Hargeisa (Horn post) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Somaliland has dismissed recent claims by Somalia over Berbera Port as baseless and without legal standing.
In an immediate press release issued on 12 January 2026, the Somaliland government stated that Berbera is an integral part of Somaliland’s sovereign territory, over which Somalia has no jurisdiction, administrative authority, or control. “Any attempt by Somalia to suspend or interfere with agreements relating to Berbera is legally void and inconsistent with international law,” the statement read.
The ministry reaffirmed that all agreements signed between Somaliland and the United Arab Emirates are fully lawful and binding, aimed at fostering trade, infrastructure development, and regional stability. Somaliland praised the UAE, under the leadership of Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for its continued partnership in promoting peace and economic growth in Somaliland and the wider Horn of Africa.
The government emphasized that Somaliland remains a responsible and reliable partner, committed to cooperation based on mutual respect, non-interference, and adherence to international law, while asserting its sovereignty over all agreements and developments in Berbera.
Statement
Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff Reporter
