Somalia, Eritrea sign deal in Asmara after talks

ASMARA - Cognizant of the deep bonds of friendship between the peoples of Eritrea and Somalia;

Recalling that the peoples of Somalia and Eritrea have consistently evinced solidarity and provided support to each other’s aspirations for freedom, independence and progress;

Determined to build on their historical brotherly relations and mutual solidarity to forge a partnership that benefits the two nations and the region;

The Governments of Eritrea and Somalia have reached the following points of agreement:-

1. Somalia is endowed with a strategic location and vast human and natural resources. However, it has been hampered in realizing its potential due to internal problems and external intervention. Thus, Eritrea strongly supports the political independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia as well as the efforts of the people and government of Somalia to restore the country’s rightful stature and achieve the lofty aspirations of its people.

2. Somalia and Eritrea will endeavour to forge intimate political, economic, social, cultural as well as defence and security cooperation.

3. The two countries will establish diplomatic relations and exchange ambassadors, promote bilateral trade and investment, as well as educational and cultural exchanges.

4. Eritrea and Somalia will work in unison to foster regional peace, stability and economic integration.

Done at Asmara on July 30, 2018

For the State of Eritrea                                             For the State of Somalia
President Isaias Afwerki                                            President Farmajo