President William Ruto met Somaliand President Abdirahman Mohamed Irro, raising questions about Kenya's stand in its recognition of the breakaway region.
Irro's spokesperson, Hussein Aden Igeh, shared an image of the two Heads of State on X, including details of the meeting, which took place on the day Somaliland opened a liaison office in Nairobi. "The two Heads of State engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on matters of mutual interest and regional significance, with particular attention to bilateral Cooperation - including the promotion of trade, investment, economic development, and enhanced air connectivity," Igeh said, describing the meeting as "cordial and productive." He disclosed that the meeting also discussed peace and regional stability and education, and institutional development, focusing on academic exchanges, among other issues. "The meeting reaffirmed the strong and longstanding relationship between Somaliland and Kenya, a partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for peace, stability, and prosperity across the region," added Igeh.
Contrary to the norm, whenever Ruto meets a foreign dignitary, State House has yet to publish any images of the meeting or its details.
Yesterday, Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reaffirmed that it had not "granted approval" to Hargeisa to open the liaison office. "…its investiture of the status of a Diplomatic Office does not enjoy the imprimatur of the Republic of Kenya and cannot be allowed to proceed," the Ministry said in a statement dated May 26.
