President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of the Republic of Somaliland concluded a landmark official visit to Qatar, marking the first trip by a Somaliland head of state to the Gulf nation in 34 years. The visit, described as a diplomatic milestone, has laid a strong foundation for enhanced collaboration between Somaliland and Qatar.
According to a press release from Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Somaliland delegation held productive high-level discussions with senior Qatari officials, including Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi, and Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qasim Al-Abdullah Al-Thani. The delegation also engaged with senior officials from Qatar Charity and the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD).
The Ministry emphasized that the historic visit—the first of its kind—created a unique opportunity to foster new partnerships in diplomacy, economy, and development. Key discussions focused on investment opportunities in Somaliland’s strategic sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and livestock, alongside advancements in animal health. Infrastructure development was another priority, with plans to improve road connectivity, clean water access, sanitation, and rural development.
Both nations expressed a shared commitment to expanding humanitarian and economic initiatives through collaboration with Qatar Charity and QFFD. The talks also highlighted mutual interests in promoting peace and security in the Horn of Africa, addressing regional threats, and fostering stability.
The press release underscored an agreement on “economic cooperation in the Horn of Africa region,” emphasizing the importance of close collaboration to enhance community welfare and create economic opportunities. The Somaliland delegation extended heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Qatar for their warm hospitality and brotherly spirit throughout President Irro’s visit.
This historic engagement signals a promising future for Somaliland-Qatar relations, with both nations poised to deepen ties and drive regional prosperity.