Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Djiboutian President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh held talks on wide-ranging issues pertaining to their respective countries on Wednesday.
Their discussions underscore a significant step in strengthening Horn of Africa cooperation, particularly in areas critical to both nations.
Security & Counterterrorism Collaboration
Somalia’s ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab and Djibouti’s experience in regional security (hosting US, Chinese, and French military bases) could lead to enhanced intelligence-sharing and joint operations.
The potential for Djibouti to support Somali forces in training and logistics, given its role in AMISOM/ATMIS (now AUSSOM) is a game changer for both nations and the region as a whole.
Economic & Infrastructure Development
Djibouti’s strategic ports (Doraleh) could complement Somalia’s Berbera, Bossaso, and Mogadishu ports, thus boosting trade.
Discussions touched on cross-border investments, energy projects, and the Djibouti-Addis corridor’s extension into Somalia.
Regional Stability & Mediation
Both leaders discussed IGAD-led initiatives, including Somalia’s reconciliation efforts and tensions in the Horn (e.g., Ethiopia-Somalia tensions over the MoU with Somaliland).
Djibouti, a traditional mediator, could play a role in de-escalating disputes in the region.
Why This Matters
Djibouti’s strategic position (military hubs, Red Sea access) and Somalia’s security needs make this partnership crucial for countering extremism and piracy.
Also, economic ties could help revive Somalia’s post-conflict economy while reinforcing Djibouti’s role as a regional trade gateway. A stronger Somalia-Djibouti relations could balance growing geopolitical rivalries (e.g., UAE, Turkey, China) in the Horn.
This meeting signals a renewed push for Somali integration into regional security and economic frameworks, with Djibouti as a key ally.