MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro expressed hope on Tuesday that the United States would be the first nation to formally recognize the breakaway region after its 30-year pursuit of recognition.
Speaking at the World Government Summit in the UAE, Irro highlighted the strategic importance of Somaliland, citing the $400 million investment by UAE-based DP World in Berbera Port. He emphasized the region’s key position along vital maritime routes linking Africa and Asia.
Irro also revealed that the controversial memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with Ethiopia in January 2024 would be finalized by the end of the year. The agreement, which his predecessor Muse Bihi Abdi negotiated, sparked tensions with Somalia. Mogadishu accused Addis Ababa of violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Although Somaliland declared independence in 1991, Somalia considers the region part of its territory. Despite this, Somaliland has functioned as a de facto state for over three decades, continuing its pursuit of international recognition.
Somalia, which has previously sought to block Somaliland’s participation in international forums, has not yet commented on Irro’s attendance at the World Government Summit. This is notable, as Mogadishu relies heavily on the UAE for military funding, which it cannot afford to jeopardize.
