On September 28, 2026, Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Abdoul Kader Housseyn Omar, addressed the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He urged the international community to bolster its support for Djibouti in addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Yemen. The minister highlighted that the crisis has led to an influx of thousands of refugees into Djibouti, straining the country's resources.
The humanitarian situation in Yemen has had a profound impact on Djibouti, with the UN estimating that around 10,000 people are expected to arrive in the country. This has put additional pressure on local communities and the central camp's capacity. The minister emphasized that Djibouti cannot manage this crisis alone and requires substantial international support to provide adequate shelter, food, and basic services to the affected populations.
In his address, the minister also touched upon the situation in Somalia, reaffirming Djibouti's commitment to supporting the Somali people and government in their efforts to establish peace, stability, and strengthen state institutions. He called on the international community to maintain the security gains made in Somalia and continue supporting the Somali authorities in building their national capacities.
Regarding Sudan, the minister welcomed the country's return to full participation in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). He stressed the need for prioritizing de-escalation and finding a comprehensive political solution that involves the Sudanese people in the process. Such a solution, he argued, is essential for restoring peace and achieving sustainable stability in Sudan.
The minister also raised the issue of Djiboutian prisoners of war held in Eritrea for over 18 years, reiterating calls for their safe return. Furthermore, he highlighted the strategic importance of the Red Sea and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, emphasizing the need to maintain freedom of navigation as a critical element of regional security and global trade stability.
On climate change, Djibouti's Foreign Minister noted that as a coastal state, Djibouti faces increasing impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and associated risks to its population and ecosystems. He called for accelerated implementation of commitments under the Paris Agreement, enhanced adaptation efforts, and increased access to climate finance for developing countries to build resilience.
The minister also provided an update on Djibouti's economic situation, noting that despite challenges, the country's economy has shown resilience, driven by the performance of its ports, logistics services, trade, communications, energy, and investment sectors. He highlighted ongoing efforts to diversify the economy, develop infrastructure, and enhance regional integration, including projects related to oil and gas pipelines connecting Djibouti to Ethiopia.
Key points
- Djibouti calls for international support to address the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
- The country emphasizes the importance of maintaining security in the Red Sea for global trade stability.
- Djibouti stresses the need for increased climate finance for developing countries to address climate change impacts.
