The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi (Cirro), today met at the Presidential Palace with the Deputy Ambassador of France to Kenya, Romain JOLY, and a delegation he led, who arrived on an official visit to Somaliland.
The French delegation was the largest ever to visit Somaliland. The President first thanked the delegation for their visit, stressing that Somaliland is ready to strengthen and develop its relations with France, especially in the areas of diplomacy, trade, investment, tourism, culture and knowledge exchange.
The French delegation included Dr. Xavier Gutherz, an international expert who has played a prominent role in raising awareness among the international community about the historical significance of the Las Geel Archaeological Site in Somaliland.
The President of Somaliland has fully supported a project funded by the French Government entitled “Protection and Development of Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Sites in Somaliland”, with Dr. Xavier Gutherz was presented with a Certificate of Honor, praising him and his team for their great efforts in protecting, preserving and promoting the historical heritage of Somaliland.
The President also briefed the French delegation on the vast opportunities in Somaliland, noting the peaceful environment, political stability and democratic system that have emerged there, which he said will serve as a basis for fruitful multifaceted cooperation.
The President noted that Somaliland is ready to expand its cooperation with France, and is interested in strengthening cooperation in the areas of trade, investment promotion, education development and cultural ties.
For his part, the Deputy Ambassador of France to Kenya, Romain JOLY, thanked the President for the warm welcome extended to him, stating that France is interested in strengthening its relations with Somaliland, and values the role Somaliland plays in peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
“This diplomatic meeting concluded with mutual understanding and a shared desire to further strengthen cooperation and partnership between the two sides, in order to achieve mutual interests and lasting partnership that serves the development of both countries,” said a statement issued by the Presidency.
