Puntland sides with Saudi Arabia-led coalition against Qatar

“We acknowledge the fact that the Middle East issue will not be resolved anytime soon. And that the continuing crisis will have security as well as developmental amplifications throughout Somalia. For quite some time Puntland state has had a strategic partnership with both the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the areas of security trade and key developmental projects. Moreover, it is widely known that Somalia has historically enjoyed good relations with the people and the governments of the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Therefore, we believe our position is to clearly stand with partners, namely Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” the statement reads. 

“We urge the Federal Government of Somalia to consider its position regarding the impending crisis which, if not addressed properly, will have lasting and negative consequences for the people of Somalia. We condemn all state and non-state actors that supports the terrorism that is wreaking havoc in Somalia today. We call for an end to the crisis that is now threatening the stability of the region.” The statement added. 

Long-running difference between Saudi Arabia-led coalition and Qatar erupted in June this year, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Yemen cut ties with Qatar, accusing of supporting terrorist group in the region, but Qatar denied the allegations.

In June, Somalia called on the Arab Nations to resolve their differences through dialogue.