Manama(SONNA) The Arab Ministerial Working Group met on Tuesday for a gathering, before the anticipated Bahrain summit set for Thursday. The main focus was to develop a strategy to back Somalias independence and territorial integrity.
The preliminary meeting, which included Foreign Ministers from the Arab Ministerial Group was held in preparation for the summit aimed at showcasing unity with Somalia. Representatives from Somalia led the session joined by figures from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Mauritania, Djibouti and the Secretary General of the Arab League Ahmad Aboul Gheit.
The ministers concentrated on implementing League Council Resolution No. (8988) passed on January 17 2023. This resolution serves as the foundation of the Arab Leagues support by advocating for defending Somalias land and sovereignty against both threats and internal unrest.
During their talks the group strongly. Deemed invalid the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Ethiopia and self declared autonomous Somaliland region. This position underscores the backing of Somalia’s government and its territorial rights by the Arab League.
Secretary General Ahmad Aboul Gheit reaffirmed the Arab League’s dedication, to supporting Somalia.
“Our main goal is to ensure that Somalias independence is respected and its borders are protected ” Aboul Gheit mentioned. He stressed the importance of nations coming together to support Somalia against any actions that may threaten its independence.
Resolution 8988 specifically opposes any commercial or military activities that could be seen as hostile, towards Somalia. It also emphasizes the significance of maintaining relations between the Arab League and Somalia proposing a supportive framework covering various areas of cooperation.
The ministers also outlined a plan for how Arab countries can support Somalia providing assistance for the governments fight against terrorism. This assistance is vital as Somalia grapples with threats from organizations endangering its stability and the well being of its people.
Moreover the Working Group deliberated on crafting a strategy encompassing economic and security aspects to aid Somalia. The strategy aims to bolster Somalia’s capacity in addressing challenges while protecting its borders from threats.
The upcoming summit, in Bahrain is anticipated to be a moment for Arab League members to reaffirm their solidarity with Somalia. The upcoming summit is set to serve as a platform, for leaders from nations to back the resolutions and strategies put forth by the Ministerial Working Group. This support is expected to bolster the united efforts in aiding Somalia in its pursuit of peace and stability.
With the Bahrain summit on the horizon global attention remains focused on the outcomes of these deliberations. The choices made could have an impact on the landscape not only in the Horn of Africa but also beyond potentially fostering security and collaboration in the region.
This meeting of the Arab Ministerial Working Group marked an advancement in reinforcing backing for Somalia. The collective determination shown by the Arab League highlights a dedication to peace and stability ensuring that Somalia receives the support to effectively tackle its challenges.