President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Saturday held bilateral talks with Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh following the latter’s inauguration for a sixth term in office, as the two leaders reaffirmed commitments to strengthening relations between their countries.
The meeting came shortly after President Kiir joined several African heads of state and regional leaders at the swearing-in ceremony held at the Djibouti International Conference Center, where President Guelleh officially began another term amid strong diplomatic and regional support.
According to officials, the discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in areas including diplomacy, trade, regional security, and peacebuilding efforts across the Horn of Africa.
President Kiir’s participation in the ceremony underscored the growing relationship between Juba and Djibouti City, with both countries seeking closer collaboration on regional integration and economic development.
The inauguration ceremony attracted leaders from across the continent and highlighted Djibouti’s increasing influence in regional politics, commerce, and security affairs due to its strategic location in the Horn of Africa.
The bilateral talks also took place at a time when countries in the region are pushing for stronger partnerships to address ongoing security and economic challenges, including instability, trade barriers, and humanitarian concerns.
Regional observers say cooperation among Horn of Africa leaders remains critical in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in a region often affected by conflict and political tensions.
President Guelleh, one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, has maintained close diplomatic ties with several regional governments during his years in office.
His latest inauguration was marked by renewed calls for solidarity and cooperation among African states.
No specific agreements were announced following Saturday’s meeting, but officials said both leaders expressed readiness to continue strengthening bilateral engagement and supporting regional peace initiatives.
