President Irro arrives in Washington as Somaliland seeks stronger ties and recognition

Sunday September 6, 2026

Washington (HOL) — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro and his delegation arrived in Washington, D.C., on Saturday for a visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic, security and economic ties, the Somaliland presidency said.

The delegation was welcomed by members of the Somaliland community and supporters of Somaliland living in the United States, according to a statement from the presidency.

Irro is accompanied by Somaliland’s first lady and senior government officials, including the ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Aviation and Airport Development, and Defense, as well as senior advisers on economic and foreign affairs.

The presidency said other members of the delegation are expected to join the president during the visit, including the speaker of the House of Representatives, the minister of the Presidency and a senior adviser to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

During the visit, Irro is expected to hold meetings with various officials and stakeholders. The presidency said the discussions will focus on strengthening diplomatic relations, security and economic cooperation, investment, and support for Somaliland’s international identity.

“The visit is part of the government’s efforts to promote Somaliland’s interests, with Irro and his delegation expected to present Somaliland’s vision and strategic role in the region,” the statement adds.

The visit comes as Somalia’s federal government delegation, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is also expected to travel to the United States for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

UNGA 81 opens on Sept. 8 in New York, with the high-level General Debate scheduled to run from Sept. 22 to Sept. 28.

Irro is expected to meet officials and international partners during his U.S. visit as Somaliland continues efforts to seek recognition and build new diplomatic relationships.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not received broad international recognition.