The Puntland regional administration has openly opposed an agreement approved yesterday by the Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia, which was signed between the federal government and the Republic of Türkiye and is aimed at developing Somalia’s maritime sector and seafaring workforce.
The agreement, signed by both sides, has been described as a framework to strengthen maritime infrastructure, enhance coastal protection, and build the capacity of Somali maritime personnel. However, Puntland authorities said the deal does not apply to their region and will not be accepted.
Speaking on the matter, Puntland’s Minister of Justice stated that the agreement would not be implemented in Puntland and does not align with the region’s interests or governance system.
“If there is any intention to set up checkpoints or impose fees on vehicles, maritime workers, or goods moving to and from Somali ports, that will not work,” the minister said.
Puntland further stressed that agreements related to maritime resources and ports require broad national consultation and should not be decided unilaterally by a single authority.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Somalia has not yet responded to Puntland’s rejection. The agreement has already been endorsed by the federal Cabinet, which described it as vital to economic development and maritime security.
The dispute surrounding the agreement comes at a time of ongoing political disagreements between the federal government and some regional administrations.
