Somaliland has taken a notable stride in strengthening its international engagements after President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro met with the Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, alongside U.S. Deputy Ambassador Justin Davis, at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The high-level visit, described by officials as constructive and forward-looking, focused on expanding cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, maritime protection and regional stability. Somaliland’s leadership presented the country as a dependable partner with a consistent record in maintaining peace and democratic governance for more than three decades.
During the meeting, President Irro outlined Somaliland’s achievements, emphasising its peaceful political transition, functioning institutions, and disciplined national armed forces. He also highlighted Somaliland’s role in safeguarding the Gulf of Aden, a corridor that anchors global shipping and regional commerce.
General Anderson noted Somaliland’s growing strategic importance and praised the country’s contribution to security in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa. He signalled AFRICOM’s interest in strengthening collaboration, particularly in areas related to counter-terrorism, maritime awareness and capacity building.
Deputy Ambassador Justin Davis echoed these sentiments and commended Somaliland’s stability, political maturity and professional security services. He affirmed that the United States sees value in deepening technical cooperation and institutional development with Somaliland.
President Irro reaffirmed Somaliland’s readiness to broaden its partnership with the United States, describing the relationship as one built on shared interests. He also underscored that formal recognition of Somaliland would align with American strategic priorities in East Africa by engaging a peaceful, democratic and reliable ally in a region facing complex security challenges.
Following the discussions, the U.S. delegation toured Berbera International Airport and the expanding Berbera Port, two major infrastructure assets underpinning Somaliland’s economic ambitions and its role as a potential trade gateway for the wider region.
The visit marks an important moment in Somaliland–U.S. relations, signalling growing alignment on security cooperation, regional stability and long-term strategic coordination. Both sides expressed commitment to accelerating joint initiatives and building a durable partnership anchored in mutual respect and shared objectives.