Somali government has called on Arab League to intervene the soaring relations between the nation and United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the controversial deal signed by DP World, Somaliland and Ethiopia.
In a letter sent by representatives of Somalia to the Arab League, the government terms the concession as null and void saying it violates unity and Sovereignty of Somalia.
“The Federal Government has made clear that it is not party to the agreement and neither did it authorize any party to take part in the agreement, It is tantamount to Somalia’s internal affairs and the unity of the nation,” the letter reads in part.
The move comes after Chief Executive Officer of DP World; Ahmed Bin Sulayem dismissed Somali government’s rejection of the tripartite agreement.
Sulayem maintained that Somalia has nothing to do with the concession by Somaliland, Ethiopia and DP World.
“The decision of the Federal Government of Somalia does not concern DP World, Somaliland is an independent country for more than 28 years and makes its own decision and its parliament approved this project,” Suleyem said in a TV interview in Dubai.
Somaliland parliament overwhelmingly approved the agreement in 2016.
He further said that the implementation of the concession which lasts for 30 years will be carried as scheduled.
‘The Federal Government of Somalia cannot change the pact. That reaction is just a statement,” Sulayem boasted.
Early this month, DP World unveiled the second phase signing of controversial deal which the company get 51% stake, Somaliland Ethiopia will have a 30% whereas Ethiopia which was included in the second phase of agreement secures 19%.
The 30 year deal which Somaliland signed in 2016 pegs at $442 millions.
Somaliland which declared its independence in 1991 has not yet gained recognition from international community.
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