“The only path forward is for us to exist as two brotherly nations with good neighborly relations,” President Irro Tells Somalia leaders
HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro said Somaliland places high priority on maintaining strong and cooperative relations with neighboring countries, emphasizing principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and regional stability.
“The Republic of Somaliland attaches special importance to building good relations with neighboring countries,” he said. “We believe in the principles of good neighborliness, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, as the stability and development of the region are interconnected.”
He said Somaliland is ready to further strengthen ties with its neighbors while respecting their sovereignty, territorial integrity and internal affairs, and expects the same in return.
The president expressed gratitude to Ethiopia, noting its long-standing relationship with Somaliland based on mutual respect.
“We thank Ethiopia for the long and healthy relationship it has maintained with Somaliland. We expect the same, and more, from our brothers in the region,” he said.
Cooperation on Shared Interests
Irro said Somaliland is prepared to engage in partnerships that do not compromise its sovereignty, focusing on shared interests such as:
Peace and security
Free movement of people
Economic cooperation
Cross-border trade
Infrastructure development
Maritime security
Environmental protection
Regional stability
Message to Somalia
The president also addressed the federal government in Mogadishu, urging it to acknowledge Somaliland’s political reality.
“We call on the government in Mogadishu to recognize that the sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland has reached a point of no return,” he said.
He added that the only viable path forward is peaceful coexistence between two separate states.
“Today, the only path open to Somalia is for us to exist as two brotherly nations with good neighborly relations. We are ready for that. We say: accept the reality that Somaliland has become an independent and recognized country,” he said.
Cultural Reference
The president concluded this section by recalling verses from the late Somali poet Mohamed Ibrahim Warsame Hadraawi, emphasizing wisdom, unity and dignity in navigating complex political realities.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
