Hargeisa — The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Cirro), yesterday held a meeting at the Presidential Palace with the Ambassador of the State of Qatar, H.E. Abdullah Bin Salem Al Nuaimi, where the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation across several strategic sectors.

According to a press release from the president's spokesperson, during the meeting, President Cirro warmly welcomed the Ambassador and expressed his deep appreciation for the Ambassador's official visit to Somaliland. He extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Qatar for its continued support to the people of Somaliland, particularly during times of hardship such as drought emergencies.

The United Arab Emirates—Qatar’s regional rival—maintains a significant presence in Somaliland, including its management of the Berbera Port. Previous Somaliland administrations had generally kept Qatar at arm’s length.

The statement added: the President also acknowledged the valuable development projects that the State of Qatar has implemented in Somaliland—initiatives that have significantly contributed to improving community livelihoods. He further encouraged Qatar to expand its development programmes in Somaliland and to invest in new projects tailored to the country’s needs.

President Cirro reaffirmed Somaliland’s readiness to build and enhance comprehensive cooperation with Qatar in various fields. These include regional security, economic infrastructure, investment, water development, healthcare, and education. He noted that Somaliland would warmly welcome the opening of Qatari development, humanitarian, and diplomatic offices in the country.

The president's spokesperson said: for his part, Ambassador Abdullah Bin Salem Al Nuaimi thanked the President for the warm reception and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to continue supporting Somaliland. He highlighted that Qatar will sustain and strengthen its humanitarian and development projects, especially those aimed at improving essential public services for the people of Somaliland.

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding and a shared commitment for both sides to continue working together, advancing cooperation based on mutual benefit, respect, and long-term partnership, according to the statement. 

Qatar made no statement on the visit.