Details Of UAE And AUC Meeting Amid Recognition Of Somaliland By Israel And Several States

The United Arab Emirates and the African Union Commission have reaffirmed their strategic partnership following high-level talks in Addis Ababa, held against a backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa, including recent international recognition developments involving Somaliland.

The meeting brought together African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and UAE Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, underscoring the growing political and economic engagement between the Gulf state and Africa’s continental body.

According to a joint press statement issued on January 8, 2026, the talks built on the first round of political consultations held in Abu Dhabi in September 2025, under the framework of the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding.

Both sides reviewed progress made since those inaugural consultations and recommitted to strengthening structured political dialogue across priority areas.

“As has been demonstrated since the launch of our political consultations, the partnership between the African Union Commission and the United Arab Emirates continues to deepen in scope and substance,” the statement noted, emphasizing a shared resolve to enhance cooperation on peace, security, and development.

The discussions also took place amid heightened regional attention on Somalia and Somaliland, following recognition moves by Israel and several other states, developments that have placed renewed focus on sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability in the Horn of Africa.

Focus on Agenda 2063 and Silencing the Guns

Central to the meeting was Africa’s long-term development blueprint, Agenda 2063, with particular emphasis on the flagship initiative “Silencing the Guns by 2030.”

The two leaders explained that peace and security remain inseparable from economic growth and integration.

“The strong linkages between peace, security, trade, and development were reaffirmed,” the statement said, adding that sustainable peace is a prerequisite for economic integration, while trade and investment foster resilience and inclusive growth.

Also Read: African Union Makes U-Turn After Israel Recognized Somaliland as an Independent State

Trade, Technology, and AI for Development

Trade cooperation featured prominently, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Both sides agreed that expanding intra-African trade, supported by external partners such as the UAE, is critical to long-term stability.

They also welcomed the UAE’s US$1 billion(approximately Ksh. 129 billion), “AI for Development” initiative, launched at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025.

The initiative was described as having “significant potential to support Africa’s development priorities through innovation, digital transformation, and emerging technologies.”

Horn of Africa, Sudan, and Somalia

On regional security, the leaders exchanged views on the Horn of Africa, highlighting maritime security and the interdependence between stability in the region and security in the Arabian Gulf.

On Sudan, both sides stressed the “urgent need for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian truce,” a permanent ceasefire, and unhindered humanitarian access, while condemning atrocities against civilians.

Regarding Somalia, the UAE and the AUC reiterated their continued support for the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, and stability, a position carrying added significance amid regional diplomatic shifts.

Also Read: EAC Clarifies Stance on Somaliland After Israel Recognizes It as Independent

Global Issues and Water Diplomacy

The meeting also addressed broader international issues, including the UAE’s position on the disputed islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa.

Both sides supported a peaceful resolution in line with international law.

Looking ahead, the parties highlighted the 2026 African Union theme on water and sanitation and the upcoming United Nations Water Conference, to be co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal.

They agreed to work closely to deliver “practical, action-oriented outcomes for Africa.”

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Member of the AUC and United Arab Emirates In A Meeting In Addis Ababa. PHOTO/ File