Abu Dhabi, UAE — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro joined leaders and industry experts at the Global Rail Conference in the United Arab Emirates capital, positioning his administration as a proactive player in regional trade and transportation development.
During the conference, President Irro emphasized the importance of modern transport corridors in driving economic integration across the Horn of Africa. He highlighted Somaliland’s strategic location along key maritime and overland trade routes and reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming the breakaway region into a logistics hub connecting East Africa with the Gulf and beyond.
On the sidelines of the summit, Irro held meetings with international partners and investors to explore potential railway and road infrastructure projects. Discussions reportedly focused on linking Somaliland’s Berbera Port with neighbouring countries through modern rail networks, a move that could significantly cut transport costs and enhance cross-border trade.
Officials close to the delegation said talks also touched on customs harmonization, digital tracking systems for cargo, and public-private partnerships to finance long-term infrastructure.
Analysts say Somaliland’s active participation signals a broader push to diversify its economy and assert its relevance in continental connectivity agendas—despite lacking formal international recognition.
By engaging with global stakeholders, Irro is seeking to position Somaliland not only as a politically stable territory but also as a viable gateway for regional commerce.
The Global Rail Conference brought together government officials, investors and logistics experts from across the world, with this year’s edition focused on advancing sustainable transport solutions and economic corridors linking Africa, Asia and Europe.