Somaliland President Sees Off International Delegations Following May 18 Independence Anniversary Celebrations.

Hargeisa, Somaliland (Horn post) President of the Republic of Somaliland Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro on Tuesday formally bid farewell to international delegations that attended the 35th anniversary celebrations marking Somaliland’s restoration of independence on May 18, 2026, in Hargeisa.

According to a statement released by the presidency, the Somaliland leader expressed deep appreciation to diplomats, foreign guests, international representatives, and partner delegations who traveled to Somaliland to join the national celebrations commemorating the country’s declaration of restored sovereignty in 1991.

President Irro described May 18 as a symbol of freedom, resilience, and the determination of the people of Somaliland.

More than 25 countries from across the world were represented during the 2026 May 18 celebrations, highlighting what Somaliland officials described as growing international engagement and increasing global awareness of Somaliland’s democratic governance, peace, and state-building efforts.

The president said the participation of international delegations reflected strengthening diplomatic ties between Somaliland and members of the international community, as well as growing recognition of the region’s stability and democratic progress.

President Irro also emphasized that May 18 represents a historic milestone rooted in struggle, reconstruction, and national aspirations, adding that Somaliland will continue expanding cooperation, partnerships, and diplomatic relations with foreign governments and international organizations.

Members of the visiting delegations praised Somaliland’s security, democratic development, and political stability, while also recognizing the territory’s role in promoting peace and stability across the Horn of Africa.

In his closing remarks, President Irro thanked the international guests for their continued support and solidarity with Somaliland and expressed hope for stronger future relations between Somaliland and the global community.

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News Desk Hargeisa

Abdikarim Salah

Abdikarim Saed Salah is a multimedia journalist and international correspondent with over 15 years of professional experience in broadcast journalism, digital media, and political reporting across the Horn of Africa. He is the Founder, Editor and reporter at Horn post Digital News Platform, He is currently based in Hargeisa, Somaliland, where he works as a TV presenter and producer at Horn Cable TV, covering politics, regional security, governance, and international affairs. His reporting focuses on major developments in the Horn of Africa, including geopolitical dynamics, elections, security issues, and diplomatic relations. He is known for producing in-depth interviews, field reporting, and analysis-driven journalism.