Addis Ababa, Oct 14, 2025 — Somaliland President Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi is set to travel to Ethiopia on Tuesday after receiving an official invitation from the Ethiopian government, marking his first visit to Addis Ababa since taking office.
According to officials, several Somaliland ministers have already arrived in the Ethiopian capital to prepare for the trip, which is expected to last two to three days. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations, enhance regional cooperation, and explore new areas of partnership between the two neighbors.
President Abdillahi is scheduled to meet with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to discuss issues of trade, infrastructure, and security, including Ethiopia’s growing interest in using Berbera Port as an alternative trade route to the Red Sea.
The visit comes amid renewed engagement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, following months of dialogue on expanding economic links and regional stability. Analysts say the talks could pave the way for deeper cooperation in transport, energy, and counterterrorism, areas where both sides have strong shared interests.
The Somaliland leader’s trip follows his recent participation in the Africa Debate Conference in Dubai, where he met with business leaders and diaspora representatives to promote investment opportunities in Somaliland.
For Somaliland, the Ethiopia visit underscores its determination to strengthen international ties despite the lack of formal recognition. For Ethiopia, it signals a pragmatic approach to regional diplomacy as the country seeks diversified trade routes and stronger security partnerships.
The meeting between the two leaders is expected to conclude with a joint statement reaffirming the commitment to peaceful cooperation and mutual economic growth.