In a highly positive and forward-looking development, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, warmly welcomed the Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, and U.S. Deputy Ambassador Justin Davis to the Presidential Palace today for a productive and historic meeting.
The visit, described by both sides as a major step forward in bilateral relations, focused on expanding cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, maritime safety, and regional stability — areas where Somaliland has long proven itself a reliable and effective partner.
President Irro proudly highlighted Somaliland’s outstanding achievements: three decades of peace, regular democratic elections, a professional national military, and a vital role in safeguarding one of the world’s most important shipping corridors in the Gulf of Aden.
General Dagvin Anderson praised Somaliland’s strategic location and its critical contribution to Red Sea and Horn of Africa security, emphasizing that closer partnership with Somaliland directly serves global and regional stability.
Deputy Ambassador Justin Davis commended Somaliland’s stable governance, disciplined armed forces, and consistent commitment to peace, expressing strong U.S. interest in deepening collaboration on security capacity-building and institutional development.
In a powerful message of friendship and shared vision, President Irro reaffirmed Somaliland’s full readiness to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States as a trusted ally, noting exciting new opportunities in defense, economic growth, investment, and people-centered development.
The President also underscored that recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty would powerfully advance U.S. strategic interests in East Africa by partnering with a proven, democratic, and peaceful nation in one of the world’s most vital regions.
The meeting concluded on an upbeat and optimistic note, with both sides committing to accelerate joint security initiatives, enhance strategic coordination, and build a long-term partnership rooted in mutual respect and common goals.
Following the talks, the delighted U.S. delegation enjoyed a guided tour of the modern Berbera International Airport and the rapidly expanding Berbera Port — symbols of Somaliland’s progress and its growing role as a gateway for regional and global trade.
Today’s visit marks a proud and hopeful milestone in Somaliland–U.S. relations, reinforcing Somaliland’s position as a beacon of stability and a valued partner in promoting peace and prosperity in the Horn of Africa and beyond.