DJIBOUTI, 14 April 2025 – The President of Djibouti, Ismail Omar Guelleh, inaugurated the second edition of the Djibouti International Conference on Climate Change, Research, and Resilience (2CR2) yesterday morning at the Ayla Hotel.

This conference, similar to its inaugural edition, brought together political leaders, renowned researchers, scientists, and social leaders to address the pressing challenges of climate change. The discussions at the event centered on the severe effects of climate change, including alternating cycles of droughts and floods, which lead to economic hardships, conflict, migration, and health issues.

In his speech, President Guelleh stressed the importance of international cooperation in tackling climate issues. “There will be no viable future without environmental stability nor shared prosperity without climate justice,” he emphasized. He also highlighted Africa’s potential to play a central role in the global energy transition, calling for fair partnerships based on trust, knowledge-sharing, and funding.

The President also discussed Djibouti’s significant contribution to climate research, notably through the Regional Research Observatory for Environment and Climate (ORREC), which has become an important scientific instrument for measuring climate change effects. He stated that ORREC’s work is contributing to crucial research on health and the environment, benefiting local communities, particularly in rural areas.

Finally, President Guelleh reiterated Djibouti’s commitment to working with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to integrate climate resilience into conflict prevention and resource management strategies across the region. He called for a collective global effort to build a new framework of climate solidarity.

The conference was attended by various high-ranking officials, including the Minister in Charge of the Organizing Department, Dr. Nabil Mohamed Ahmed, and other key collaborators.