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Somaliland’s newly elected leader seeks to rebuild relations with Djibouti, ease tensions over the Ethiopia deal, and push for stronger regional partnerships in the Horn of Africa
Somaliland’s new president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, arrived in Djibouti on Wednesday for a three-day official visit. This is his first regional trip since taking office and comes at a time when both Somaliland and Djibouti are working to ease recent tensions and improve cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
President Irro was warmly received at Djibouti’s international airport by Prime Minister Abdikadir Kamil Mohamed. The Prime Minister, speaking on behalf of Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh, described the visit as a sign of “trust and friendship” between the two neighboring countries.
“In a world full of challenges, this visit shows that both countries are ready to build bridges, talk openly, and promote peace,” the Prime Minister said.
Relations between Somaliland and Djibouti have been strained since early 2024. The tension began when Somaliland signed a controversial agreement with Ethiopia. The deal reportedly involved giving Ethiopia access to the Berbera Port and allowing military cooperation between the two countries. Djibouti opposed the agreement, as it relies heavily on Ethiopian trade — more than 95% of Ethiopia’s imports and exports currently pass through Djibouti’s ports.
The Somaliland-Ethiopia agreement raised concerns in the region, as it could shift trade and political alliances. Somaliland has been developing the Berbera Port, hoping to attract Ethiopian cargo and reduce Ethiopia’s reliance on Djibouti. This move has created competition between the two countries over who can offer Ethiopia better access to the Red Sea.
During his visit, President Irro is expected to meet with President Guelleh to discuss several key issues. These include improving security cooperation, boosting cross-border trade, and possibly restarting the suspended peace talks between Somaliland and Somalia.
The leaders will also talk about regional stability and how their countries can work together, rather than compete, in managing trade routes and security in the area. As both Somaliland and Djibouti seek to play a bigger role in regional trade, cooperation will be essential to avoid further tensions.
After his trip to Djibouti, President Irro is scheduled to visit Ethiopia. His upcoming visit is expected to focus on deepening economic ties and security cooperation with the Ethiopian government. He recently stated that Somaliland hopes to sign a major trade deal with Ethiopia before the end of the year.
This diplomatic tour is an important step for President Irro. It shows his commitment to strengthening Somaliland’s ties with neighboring countries and shaping a new direction for its foreign policy. By working to ease tensions and build partnerships, Somaliland hopes to position itself as a key player in the region’s economic and political future.
In summary, President Irro’s visit to Djibouti is a chance to rebuild trust, encourage open dialogue, and lay the foundation for stronger regional cooperation. With important discussions ahead in both Djibouti and Ethiopia, the trip highlights Somaliland’s efforts to engage with its neighbors and take an active role in shaping the future of the Horn of Africa.