Hargeisa (Dawan Africa) – A high-level delegation from the European Union, led by Annette Weber, the EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, met today with Somaliland President, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa. This meeting, held on July 5, 2025, marked a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral cooperation between Somaliland and the European Union.
Discussions during the meeting focused on several key areas, including regional peace, maritime security, democratic governance, and sustainable development. President Irro expressed his appreciation for the EU’s continued support, particularly in the areas of institutional reform, education, infrastructure, and climate adaptation.
The Presidency also highlighted Somaliland’s strategic importance in regional security, with President Irro emphasizing the country’s over 800 km of coastline along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which forms one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.
“Somaliland is not just a local actor; it is a cornerstone of regional stability. Our role must be formally recognized in any future regional security frameworks,” President Irro stated, according to the official spokesperson for the Presidency.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Annette Weber confirmed that her visit included meetings in both Hargeisa and Berbera. “We held constructive talks on regional stability in the Horn of Africa, maritime security in the Red Sea, and regional economic integration for the benefit of all,” she said.
While Somaliland remains unrecognized internationally, the Presidency reiterated its commitment to continued engagement with international partners, particularly on issues of security and development cooperation.
