Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi began his first official visit to Ethiopia on Tuesday, holding talks on security and economic cooperation as the Somali breakaway territory steps up efforts to secure international recognition.

Abdillahi, who was elected in November 2024, is heading a high-level delegation that includes the ministers of foreign affairs, finance, public works and investment, as well as military chief Brig. Gen. Nimaan Yusuf Osman and the director general of the National Intelligence Agency, Jama Mohamoud Egal.

The visiting delegation is set to meet with senior Ethiopian officials to discuss efforts for “strengthening bilateral cooperation, expanding trade and connectivity and deepening joint efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity across the Horn of Africa region,” a statement from the Somaliland presidency read.

“This visit underscores the new diplomatic outlook of the Republic of Somaliland and reaffirms the administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) in its determination to enhance Somaliland’s international standing, safeguard its sovereignty and strengthen its pivotal role as a responsible and constructive actor in regional and global affairs,” the statement added.