France Expands Diplomatic Engagement with Somaliland as President Irro Hosts Largest French Delegation in Hargeisa.
HARGEISA — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) on Tuesday received the Deputy Ambassador of France to the Republic of Kenya, Mr. Romain Joly, and a high-level French delegation at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa, marking the largest official French visit ever undertaken to the Republic of Somaliland.
Welcoming the delegation, President Irro expressed Somaliland’s readiness to deepen and formalize bilateral cooperation with France across a wide range of sectors, including diplomacy, trade, investment, tourism, education, culture, and knowledge exchange.
He underscored that Somaliland’s long-standing peace, political stability, and democratic governance provide a solid foundation for sustainable international partnerships.
The French delegation included Dr. Xavier Gutherz, a renowned international expert whose work has been instrumental in bringing global attention to the archaeological and historical significance of the Laas Geel rock art complex.
In a symbolic and substantive gesture, President Irro formally endorsed the French government–funded initiative titled “Promotion of Cultural Heritage of Somaliland: Preservation and Development of Somaliland’s Cultural Heritage.” In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Gutherz was awarded a Certificate of Honor for his and his team’s sustained efforts in safeguarding Somaliland’s cultural heritage.
During the meeting, President Irro briefed the delegation on Somaliland’s strategic advantages, emphasizing its secure environment, institutional continuity, and commitment to democratic processes.
He reiterated Somaliland’s interest in expanding cooperation with France in trade development, investment promotion, higher education, and cultural exchange, noting that such engagement would be mutually beneficial.
Mr. Romain Joly, for his part, thanked the President for the warm reception and conveyed France’s appreciation for Somaliland’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
He affirmed France’s interest in strengthening relations with Somaliland and exploring practical avenues for cooperation, particularly in cultural preservation, development, and people-to-people engagement.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing bilateral dialogue and building a durable partnership anchored in mutual interests, cultural respect, and long-term development cooperation.
