Abukar Osman

Hargeisa – President of Somaliland, Abdirahmaan Mohamed Abdillaahi (Cirro), alongside his Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdirahmaan Dahir Aadan, received the Ethiopian Consul to Somaliland, Teshome Shunde Hamito, at the Presidential Palace.

According to a statement from the Somaliland Presidency on On May 6, 2025, the meeting emphasized the shared commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and maintaining regular, productive bilateral engagements. The leaders also discussed matters related to cross-border movement and the facilitation of travel for citizens between the two territories.

Relations between Somaliland and Ethiopia saw significant momentum under former President Muse Biihi, particularly following the signing of a controversial maritime memorandum of understanding in early 2024. However, since the election of President Cirro in late 2024, diplomatic engagement between the two sides has appeared less intense.

“Both sides reaffirmed the importance of deepening diplomatic relations and continuing constructive dialogue on mutual interests,” the Presidency noted.

The meeting signals a possible recalibration of Somaliland–Ethiopia ties under President Cirro’s administration amid evolving regional dynamics.