Hargeisa (SD) – The Somaliland cabinet has decided to keep the controversial sanctions on FLY Dubai and Air Arabia, despite a request from traditional leaders.

Somaliland Council of Ministers in a meeting today said the suspension of Fly Dubai and Air-Arabia flights was legal, as there was no formal agreement between the Somaliland Civil Aviation Authority and the United Arab Emirates.

Therefore, the cabinet agreed that the suspension would continue until an agreement was reached between the two agencies, in accordance with the country’s laws and regulations.

President Bihi reportedly met with some traditional leaders from eastern Burao, promising them to lift the suspension on the airlines.

The president of Somaliland has recently postponed an upcoming trip to the eastern regions of the country, following reports of outrage over the blocked airliners.