President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of the Republic of Somaliland today convened a landmark meeting with seven former Ministers of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant step in national unity and diplomatic maturity as the country enters what officials describe as a new phase following its first international recognition.
The gathering brought together key figures who shaped Somaliland’s foreign policy since the restoration of its independence in 1991. President Irro described the attendees as “Architects of foreign policy” who worked tirelessly to secure international recognition for Somaliland.
In remarks during the meeting, the President listed the names and tenures of all 15 individuals who have served as Foreign Minister over the past three decades, including those deceased (may God have mercy on them), those absent, and the current officeholder.
President Irro provided a detailed briefing on the country’s current diplomatic, political, and security developments. He stressed that the sensitive stage requires complete national unity, cohesion, and the prioritization of the collective interest of the nation and its people.
“The excellent work you delivered successively laid the foundation for Somaliland’s foreign relations,” the President told the former ministers. “That foundation has enabled us to complete the process. Today, by the grace of God, we have achieved the first recognition, and we anticipate more to come.”
He emphasized that Somaliland’s recognition resulted from decades of collective national effort, to which each participant had contributed.
The President reiterated that Somaliland’s foreign policy remains anchored in cooperation, mutual respect, and shared interests. He stated that the country is not isolated, its doors remain open, and it welcomes engagement with any party willing to cooperate in good faith.
The former Foreign Ministers expressed deep appreciation for the invitation, describing the meeting as unprecedented and a clear demonstration of President Irro’s sound leadership and political maturity. They said the initiative strengthens national unity, public confidence, and hope among Somalilanders at home and in the diaspora.
The group pledged full support for the President and his administration and presented concrete diplomatic recommendations suited to the current phase.
President Irro concluded by calling on the people of Somaliland to preserve their security and unity, to confront threats collectively, and to recognize that national unity remains the strongest shield for defending Somaliland’s existence and achieving its national aspirations.
Attending former Foreign Ministers included:
Hon. Suleiman Mahmoud Aden (Suleiman Nur)
Prof. Yasin Mahmoud Hir (Faratoon)
Dr. Edna Adan Ismail
Mohamed Behi Yusuf
Abdullahi Mohamed Duale
Dr. Saad Ali Shire
Dr. Ise Kayd Mohamed
Current Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakaal also participated.
The meeting is widely viewed as sending a strong message of inclusive leadership and shared commitment to Somaliland’s future at this pivotal moment in its history.