The Minister of Defense and National Security of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Mohamed Yusuf Ali, on Wednesday held a meeting with the French Kenya Embassy’s Head of Political Affairs for the Horn of Africa, Mr. Joly Romain, whose office is based in Nairobi, Kenya.
The meeting was attended by the Minister’s Advisor, Farah Haji Ahmed, and focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Somaliland and France, particularly in the areas of security, economic engagement, and overall diplomatic relations.
Both sides exchanged views on regional security dynamics in the Horn of Africa and discussed avenues for enhancing collaboration in matters of mutual interest.
The meeting concluded in a positive atmosphere marked by mutual understanding and agreement on the importance of continued cooperation.
Political Analysis – France’s Interests in the Horn of Africa:
France has maintained strategic interests in the Horn of Africa for decades, primarily driven by security, trade, and regional influence. The nation’s proximity to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints—makes it a vital corridor for global commerce, energy shipments, and naval operations.
Engagement with Somaliland, as reflected in Monday’s meeting with Minister Mohamed Yusuf Ali, allows France to expand its intelligence-sharing and security cooperation networks, particularly to counter piracy, human trafficking, and extremist threats in the region. Economically, France seeks to safeguard and potentially expand investment opportunities, including in port development, logistics, and trade facilitation.
Diplomatically, strengthening ties with Somaliland signals France’s intent to maintain influence in East Africa and support stability initiatives. Such engagements enable Paris to balance regional power dynamics among Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, and Somalia, while projecting France’s soft and strategic power across the Horn of Africa.
