President Hassan Sheikh holds brief meeting with opposition leaders in Djibouti’s Carta
Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, held a brief but symbolic meeting in Carta with members of the opposition, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and several other prominent political figures.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of events marking the 25th anniversary of the Carta Conference, a historic gathering that paved the way for Somalia’s return to governance after years of state collapse. Carta is located about 40 kilometers from Djibouti’s capital city.
According to Somalia’s Minister of Information, Daud Aweis Jama, the President’s engagement with opposition leaders underscores his continued commitment to dialogue and national reconciliation.
“President Hassan Sheikh has always been ready for dialogue. His decision to engage the opposition demonstrates leadership that goes beyond Somalia’s borders,” Minister Aweis said in a statement.
He added that the interaction forms part of broader efforts by the President to foster understanding, unity, and political cooperation both within Somalia and across the Horn of Africa region.
The meeting in Carta coincided with commemorations attended by senior Djiboutian officials, Somali political figures, and representatives of regional organizations, all reflecting on the significance of the 2000 Carta Conference, which laid the foundation for the Transitional National Government, Somalia’s first recognized administration after nearly a decade of civil war.
President Hassan’s participation in the anniversary events and his outreach to opposition leaders come amid continued efforts to strengthen national dialogue and political cohesion as Somalia navigates key governance and security reforms.
