Djibouti (KAAB TV) – The government of Djibouti has welcomed the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, in a move that signals a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral relations and foster mutual cooperation between the two sides.
Djibouti’s Prime Minister, Abdiqadir Kamil Mohamed, personally received President Irro at the capital’s international airport, expressing his satisfaction with the visit and highlighting its diplomatic significance.
“On behalf of the President of the Republic, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh, I consider this visit a symbol of trust and enduring friendship,” said the Prime Minister. “In a world facing uncertainty, this visit reaffirms our shared commitment to building bridges, promoting dialogue, and maintaining peace.”
Following the airport reception, President Irro and his delegation are expected to hold high-level meetings with President Ismail Omar Guelleh. The visit was arranged at the invitation of the Djiboutian President.
The three-day visit comes at a critical time, as relations between Somaliland and Djibouti have been strained since early 2024. Tensions arose after Somaliland and Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement that was met with disapproval by Djibouti.
Key issues on the agenda during the visit include revitalizing diplomatic ties, enhancing cross-border trade, deepening security cooperation, and resuming talks between Somaliland and Somalia—talks that Somaliland recently suspended.
Djibouti and Somaliland are both strategic players in the Horn of Africa and are vying to serve as Ethiopia’s primary trade gateway. Currently, 95% of Ethiopia’s imports and exports pass through Djibouti’s ports. However, Somaliland has constructed a modern port aimed at attracting Ethiopian trade.
Ethiopia, which is landlocked, has in recent years sought greater access to the sea, including a port under its control and a military presence in the Red Sea region. President Irro has indicated that Somaliland plans to sign a significant trade agreement with Ethiopia later this year.
Following his Djibouti trip, President Irro is expected to make an official visit to Ethiopia. There, discussions will likely focus on strengthening the historical ties between the two sides, with particular emphasis on economic development and security collaboration.