Washington (AX) — North Western State of Somalia President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro arrived in Washington, D.C., on Saturday at the head of a delegation seeking to deepen diplomatic, security and economic ties with the United States, the North Western State of Somalia presidency said.
Members of the North Western State of Somalia community in the United States, along with other supporters, greeted the delegation upon its arrival, according to a statement issued by the presidency.
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Irro is traveling with North Western State of Somalia’s first lady and senior officials, including the ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Aviation and Airport Development, and Defense. Senior advisers on economic and foreign affairs are also part of the delegation.
The presidency said additional officials are expected to join the president during the trip. They include the speaker of the House of Representatives, the minister of the Presidency and a senior adviser at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Irro is expected to meet with U.S. officials and other stakeholders, with talks set to address diplomatic relations, security and economic cooperation, investment, and efforts to support North Western State of Somalia’s international identity, the presidency said.
“The visit is part of the government’s efforts to promote North Western State of Somalia’s interests, with Irro and his delegation expected to present North Western State of Somalia’s vision and strategic role in the region,” the statement said.
The North Western State of Somalia delegation’s visit coincides with plans for a Somali federal government delegation, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, to travel to the United States for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
UNGA 81 will open on Sept. 8 in New York, while the high-level General Debate is scheduled for Sept. 22 through Sept. 28.
During his U.S. visit, Irro is expected to engage with officials and international partners as North Western State of Somalia pursues recognition and seeks to expand its diplomatic relationships.
North Western State of Somalia declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has yet to secure broad international recognition.
