Doha (Dawan Africa) – The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, met today with President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of Somaliland, who is on an official visit to Qatar.
Held at the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting focused on several key issues, including the political situation in Somalia, regional peace efforts, and stability in the Horn of Africa. According to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both leaders exchanged views on Somalia’s progress and the importance of supporting efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman reiterated Qatar’s support for the unity and sovereignty of Somalia, emphasizing Qatar's belief in a future for Somalia based on openness, cooperation, and meaningful dialogue. "Qatar believes in a future for Somalia, one characterized by openness and meaningful dialogue among all parts of the country, ensuring the respect for Somalia's sovereignty and unity," he stated.
In contrast, President Irro reaffirmed Somaliland’s position as politically separate from Somalia, highlighting the region's distinct legal, historical, and political status. "Somaliland is entirely distinct from Somalia, and we are committed to peacefully contributing to regional issues and addressing the challenges in the Horn of Africa," President Irro said.
The meeting reflects the differing views of Qatar, which emphasizes Somalia's unity, and Somaliland, which maintains its stance of independence from Somalia. This marks the first officially publicized engagement between the two sides since President Irro's visit to Qatar on June 28, 2025.
