Somali President Praises Djibouti’s Lasting Support for Peace and Statehood

CARTA, Djibouti — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday paid tribute to Djibouti’s pivotal role in restoring Somalia’s peace and statehood, marking the 25th anniversary of the historic Somali Peace Conference held in the Djiboutian town of Carta in 2000.

The event brought together Somali and Djiboutian officials, diplomats, and international partners to reflect on the peace process that laid the foundation for Somalia’s current federal government.

In his speech, President Mohamud praised Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh and the people of Djibouti for their unwavering solidarity with Somalia during its darkest period. He recalled how the Carta Conference became the turning point that revived Somalia’s political system after nearly a decade of civil war.

“I remember it clearly because I was among those who took part in the Carta Conference,” President Mohamud said. “President Ismail Omar Guelleh demonstrated extraordinary patience and commitment. His words — that Somalia had regained its statehood — were not mere declarations, but the beginning of hope that led to today’s progress.”

The Somali leader emphasized that the Carta Conference was the birthplace of Somalia’s third republic and a symbol of African-led peacebuilding. He highlighted how the conference helped unite Somali stakeholders and inspired a renewed sense of national purpose that continues to guide the country’s recovery.

President Mohamud reiterated his government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen state institutions, promote democratic governance, and uphold national unity. He reaffirmed Somalia’s determination to defeat Al-Shabaab and the Islamic State group, describing them as “international terrorist organizations that threaten regional peace.”

“We are working tirelessly to secure our nation, uphold justice, and ensure that Somalia moves toward one-person, one-vote elections,” he said. “Our goal is a Somalia that stands strong — politically stable, economically vibrant, and regionally cooperative.”

Honoring the Somali peacebuilders and community leaders who participated in the Carta process, Mohamud acknowledged their sacrifices and vision for a united Somalia. He urged the next generation to preserve that legacy by fostering peace, inclusion, and good governance.

For his part, Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh welcomed the Somali delegation and expressed pride in the historical bond between the two nations. He reaffirmed Djibouti’s enduring support for Somalia’s sovereignty and stability.

“Djibouti will always stand by its Somali brothers,” said President Guelleh. “We share a common destiny, and together we will continue to advance peace, unity, and progress in the Horn of Africa.”

The commemoration ended with renewed commitments to strengthen bilateral ties, deepen cooperation on regional security, and advance the shared vision of peace and development across the Horn of Africa.