Hargeisa (Horn post) The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), on Tuesday held a landmark and consultative meeting with former Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in what the Presidency described as a historic step reflecting national unity, political maturity, and institutional continuity.
The meeting brought together former officials who have previously led Somaliland’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagement since the country reasserted its sovereignty. It focused on national consultation, experience-sharing, and strategic dialogue on critical and existential issues facing the Republic of Somaliland at a pivotal moment in its history.
President Irro said he was honored to meet seven former foreign ministers, whom he described as the “veterans and pioneers” of Somaliland’s diplomatic struggle, noting their tireless efforts—both day and night—in the long quest for international recognition. He emphasized that all those who served in this role, including those absent and those who have passed away, made invaluable contributions to Somaliland’s recognition campaign.
During the meeting, the President read aloud the names and service periods of all 15 Foreign Ministers—past and present—who have served Somaliland since 1991, including the incumbent minister.
Addressing the gathering, President Irro provided an in-depth briefing on the new diplomatic, political, and security phase the country has entered. He stressed that the current sensitive period requires full national unity, collective responsibility, and prioritization of the supreme national interest.
“You each laid a strong foundation for Somaliland’s foreign relations, which made it easier for us to build upon your work,” the President said. “By the grace of God, we have now achieved our first international recognition, with more expected. That is why I invited you today—both to thank you and to exchange views.”
President Irro underscored that Somaliland’s recognition was not accidental but the result of decades of collective national effort. He reaffirmed that Somaliland’s foreign policy is based on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared interests, stressing that the country is not isolated and remains open to constructive engagement with all partners acting in good faith.
For their part, the former Foreign Ministers thanked the President for convening what they described as an unprecedented national consultation. They said the initiative demonstrated strong leadership, political maturity, and a clear sense of direction, adding that it boosts national unity, public confidence, and hope among Somalilanders at home and abroad.
The former ministers expressed full support for President Irro and his administration, while also presenting practical diplomatic recommendations suited to the new phase Somaliland has entered.
In his closing remarks, President Irro called on the people of Somaliland to safeguard national security, unity, and cohesion, stressing that unity remains the strongest weapon for defending Somaliland’s existence and achieving its national aspirations.
The historic meeting sent a clear message that Somaliland’s leadership is committed to harnessing collective experience, knowledge, and wisdom to guide the country through its next chapter.
Participants included:
Hon. Suleiman Mahmoud Aden (Suleiman Noor)
Prof. Yasin Mahmoud Hir (Faraton)
Dr. Edna Adan Ismail
Mohamed Bihi Yonis
Abdillahi Mohamed Duale
Dr. Sa’ad Ali Shire
Dr. Essa Kayd Mohamoud
Abdirahman Dahir Aden Bakal.
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Prepared by:
Horn Post Staff Reporter
