The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), and a high-level delegation led by him arrived in Djibouti today, May 21, 2025, for a three-day official working visit, following an official invitation from the President of Djibouti, H.E. Ismail Omar Guelleh. The delegation accompanying President Cirro includes members of the Council of Ministers and the Director of the National Intelligence Agency (NIS), who are expected to hold meetings with their Djiboutian counterparts during their stay.
Purpose of the Visit
President Irro’s Djibouti visit, his third to abroad, comes at a critical time when political relations between Somaliland and Djibouti have experienced a downturn in recent years. The main meeting between the President of Somaliland and President Guelleh took place at the Djibouti Presidential Palace, where discussions reportedly covered key issues such as bilateral relations, security, trade, and the overall situation in the Horn of Africa.
Impact of the Visit
The relationship between Somaliland and Djibouti is vital for both nations, particularly in trade and security. The Ports of Djibouti and Berbera a crucial gateway for the region, plays a significant role in the region’s economy. However, political ties between the two countries have occasionally weakened due to differing stances on regional issues. This visit is expected to bring about positive changes, strengthening bilateral ties and fostering future cooperation.
Anticipated Meetings
During the visit, the Somaliland delegation is expected to meet with senior Djiboutian officials, including ministers and security agency representatives. These meetings will focus on enhancing cooperation in security, trade, and development matters. Discussions may also address regional political dynamics, including conflicts and challenges in the Horn of Africa.
Expected Outcomes
President Irro’s visit appears to open a new chapter in Somaliland-Djibouti relations. With both countries sharing interests in trade and security, the meetings between Presidents Irro and Guelleh are likely to yield significant agreements benefiting both sides. The visit is also expected to enhance Somaliland’s international reputation, demonstrating its efforts to strengthen ties with neighboring countries.
Conclusion
The Somaliland President’s visit to Djibouti is a significant step toward improving bilateral relations between the two nations. With the meetings focusing on security, trade, and the Horn of Africa’s situation, the visit is expected to bring positive changes that benefit both countries. The outcomes of these discussions and any agreements reached will be crucial for the future of Somaliland-Djibouti relations and the stability of the Horn of Africa region.