DUBAI, UAE (Kaab TV) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Abdillahi Irro leveraged his platform at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Tuesday to advocate for Somaliland’s international recognition.
Addressing representatives from over 30 world governments, he emphasized Somaliland’s strategic location and governance as key factors warranting global recognition.
The summit, hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), brought together world leaders, business executives, influential figures, tech entrepreneurs, and investors.
During a panel discussion alongside Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, which holds a 51% stake in Somaliland’s Port of Berbera, President Irro reiterated Somaliland’s geopolitical importance.
“Given the current situation in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland holds a highly strategic position with 850 kilometers of coastline along the Gulf of Aden. Somaliland gained independence on June 26, 1960, but later chose to merge with Greater Somalia. However, on May 18, 1991, we decided to reclaim our sovereignty,” he stated.
Somaliland President @Abdirahmanirro leveraged his platform at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Tuesday to advocate for Somaliland’s international recognition. pic.twitter.com/yoVZgZY5t1
— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 12, 2025
Despite the lack of formal recognition, Irro highlighted that many nations already engage with Somaliland as a separate entity.
“Somaliland is a democratic nation that holds elections and ensures peaceful transfers of power. We expect recognition from the international community based on our governance and stability,” he added.
Prospects of U.S. Recognition
President Irro also addressed the possibility of U.S. recognition, mentioning the anticipated stance of U.S. President Donald Trump.
“We have strong relations with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Given our democratic governance, we hope the international community will acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty,” he said.
“We hope that the United States may be the first country to recognize Somaliland,” he added.
Speaking at the same session, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem clarified DP World’s business-driven approach to its investment in Berbera Port.
“Our decision to invest in Berbera was not political; it was purely based on business potential. Africa is essential for us—Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, and Ethiopia are key trade partners for Dubai, and significant exports go to these countries,” he explained.
Notably, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was not invited to the summit. Adding to the diplomatic strain, three Somalia Federal Government ministers were reportedly disinvited after their names were mistakenly labeled as “Somaliland ministers,” sparking outrage in Mogadishu.
Relations between Somalia and the UAE have been tense, with Abu Dhabi scaling up direct engagement with both Somaliland and Puntland, bypassing the Somali federal government.