On October 7, 2026, Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh met with Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), at the Presidential Palace in Djibouti. The meeting was a courtesy visit and provided an opportunity for discussions on the ongoing Francophonie Economic Forum, which is taking place at the Kempinski Palace Hotel from October 6 to 8, 2026. The forum aims to promote economic cooperation among Francophone countries and has attracted over 100 companies from around the world.
During the meeting, Mushikiwabo briefed President Guelleh on the progress of the Francophonie Economic Forum, highlighting the successful exchanges between Djibouti and other Francophone countries. She noted that the forum has already led to the signing of around 10 contracts and the launch of training programs for young Djiboutian graduates. The OIF Secretary General also emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between Djibouti and the OIF, particularly in areas such as trade and investment.
President Guelleh and Mushikiwabo also discussed Djibouti's role within the OIF. As a strategic location at the crossroads of several continents and major shipping lanes, Djibouti is well-positioned to serve as a hub for economic cooperation among OIF member states. The country's stable policies and expertise in promoting peace and prosperity make it an ideal candidate to play a leading role in the organization's efforts.
The meeting was attended by a delegation of high-ranking officials, including Mushikiwabo's representative in Djibouti, Nefertiti Tshibanda. Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdoulkader Houssein Omar, and Minister Delegate for Investment, Mariam Hamadou Ali, were also present. The discussions focused on ways to enhance cooperation between Djibouti and the OIF, as well as the country's potential to host future OIF events.
The Francophonie Economic Forum, now in its seventh edition, aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among Francophone countries. The event has brought together business leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world to discuss opportunities and challenges in the Francophone region. Djibouti's participation in the forum reflects its commitment to strengthening economic ties with other Francophone countries.
As the OIF continues to promote economic cooperation and cultural exchange among its member states, Djibouti is poised to play a key role in the organization's efforts. The country's strategic location and stable policies make it an attractive partner for investors and a hub for regional trade. The meeting between President Guelleh and Mushikiwabo highlights the strong ties between Djibouti and the OIF.
The OIF will hold its next summit in Cambodia from November 14 to 16, 2026, which will focus on promoting peace and prosperity among its member states. Djibouti's experience in promoting stability and economic growth will be valuable in these discussions. With its active participation in the OIF, Djibouti is committed to contributing to the organization's efforts to promote economic cooperation and cultural exchange among its member states.
Key points
- Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh meets with OIF Secretary General Louise Mushikiwabo to discuss economic cooperation and the Francophonie Forum.
- The Francophonie Economic Forum aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among Francophone countries.
- Djibouti is poised to play a key role in the OIF's efforts due to its strategic location and stable policies.
