Somali and Djiboutian Presidents arrive in Jigjiga for infrastructure launch and regional talks.

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh arrived in Jigjiga, the capital of Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, on Saturday, where they were received by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, officials said.

The two leaders are in Ethiopia to attend the launch of major infrastructure projects in the Somali region, part of Addis Ababa’s broader efforts to promote development and economic integration in the eastern part of the country. The projects are expected to focus on connectivity, public infrastructure and investment-oriented development aimed at boosting regional growth.

Diplomatic sources said the visit will also provide an opportunity for high-level “discussions on security cooperation, regional stability and wider political issues affecting the Horn of Africa” . Talks are expected to touch on counterterrorism efforts, cross-border security, and coordination among neighbouring states amid shifting political dynamics in the region.

The presence of Presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ismail Omar Guelleh alongside Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscores the importance of regional dialogue and cooperation at a time when the Horn of Africa continues to face complex security, economic and political challenges.

Further details on the outcomes of the meetings and the infrastructure projects are expected following the official launch events.

Mustaqbal