Kenya, Somalia restores diplomatic relations – KBC

Kenya has restored diplomatic relations with Somalia after mediation by the Qatari Emir, Sheikh Tamim Al Thani. 

In a statement to newsrooms, Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed an earlier statement by the Somalia authorities which said it was resuming the relations in keeping with the interests of good neighborliness. 

The statement by the ministry further said the Kenya government looked forward to further normalization of relations by the Somalia authorities including with regard to trade, communication, transportation, people to people relations and cultural exchanges. 

The resumption of relations comes amid a maritime boundary row between the two countries.

The Kenya government thanked the international community for the continued support and in particular the government of Qatar for the efforts in normalizing relations between Kenya and Somalia.

In December 2020 the former Somali President accused Kenya of interference in Somalia’s internal affairs in a diplomatic row which resulted in Somalia cutting diplomatic ties with Kenya.

Kenya dismissed the claims as unfounded.