His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, President of the Republic of Somaliland, has expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of India following a devastating Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
In a statement issued through his spokesman, Hussein Adan Igeh (Deyr), President Abdillahi addressed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, and the Indian nation, emphasizing the deep historical ties between Somaliland and India. “The Republic of Somaliland and India are bound by over 300 years of shared history — ties forged through maritime trade, cultural exchange, and mutual respect,” the statement read. “In this hour of sorrow, we stand in steadfast solidarity with our Indian friends.”
President Abdillahi’s message concluded with prayers for the victims and their families: “May the victims rest in eternal peace, and may solace be granted to all those affected by this profound national tragedy.” The Somaliland government has reiterated its commitment to supporting India during this period of mourning, reflecting the enduring bond between the two regions.
Indian authorities, including Prime Minister Modi, who described the incident as “heartbreaking beyond words,” have mobilized extensive rescue and relief operations. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the UK’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) have offered assistance in investigating the crash, the cause of which remains under scrutiny.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 12, 2025, involved Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner carrying 242 passengers and crew, bound for London. The plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.