On October 5, 2026, Djibouti's Foreign Minister Abdel Kader Hussein Omar represented President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, who is also the current chair of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), at the 8th semi-annual coordination meeting of the African Union. The meeting took place in El Alamein, Egypt. As the official spokesperson for the government, Minister Omar conveyed President Guelleh's greetings and emphasized Djibouti's commitment to supporting peace, security, and regional integration.
The meeting focused on enhancing coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and member states to accelerate continental integration and implement the African Union's Agenda 2063. Minister Omar stressed the importance of prioritizing peace and security in the region, highlighting the need for conflict prevention, mediation, and dialogue to address crises affecting the region and the African continent.
Minister Omar also emphasized the need to accelerate regional economic integration by facilitating trade, movement of persons, and developing regional corridors. He highlighted the importance of promoting investments and addressing climate change and humanitarian challenges. Djibouti's Foreign Minister underscored the need to develop early warning mechanisms and response systems, as well as promote sustainable management of natural resources.
In his address, Minister Omar called for the full and effective participation of women and youth in decision-making processes, development, and peacebuilding. He also stressed the importance of translating commitments into tangible and measurable results that benefit African populations and lay the foundation for a prosperous future for generations to come.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a draft declaration by the 8th semi-annual coordination meeting of the African Union. Djibouti's delegation to the meeting included Ambassador Abdi Mahamoud Heybe, Djibouti's ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the African Union, and Ambassador Ahmed Ali Brei, Djibouti's ambassador to Egypt and permanent representative to the Arab League.
During the meeting, Minister Omar held discussions with other participants on ways to strengthen cooperation between the African Union and regional economic communities. The participants also explored ways to address common challenges facing the continent, including peace and security, economic development, and climate change.
The 8th semi-annual coordination meeting of the African Union provided a platform for member states and regional economic communities to review progress, address challenges, and chart a way forward for continental integration and development. Djibouti's participation in the meeting reflects the country's commitment to regional and continental cooperation and its role in promoting peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa.
Key points
- Djibouti's Foreign Minister Abdel Kader Hussein Omar represented President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh at the 8th semi-annual coordination meeting of the African Union in Egypt.
