President Muse Bihi Abdi attended the annual gathering of global political and business leaders as part of a broader push to position Somaliland as a stable and investment-ready destination in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government, has operated with its own government, currency, and security forces for more than three decades but remains unrecognised internationally.

According to officials familiar with the meetings, President Bihi highlighted opportunities in infrastructure, energy, logistics, and ports, stressing Somaliland’s strategic location along key Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping routes. He also emphasized the territory’s relative political stability compared to the wider region, presenting it as a reliable partner for Western investors.

The engagement with Eric Trump came as part of informal discussions aimed at attracting U.S. private sector interest rather than formal government to government negotiations. Somaliland’s leadership hopes that greater business engagement could eventually translate into diplomatic recognition, particularly from the United States and its allies.

Somaliland has previously secured major foreign investments, including a port development deal with DP World at the port of Berbera, which has become a central pillar of its economic strategy. The government argues that increased international trade and investment would strengthen regional security and economic integration in East Africa.

While Somaliland continues to lobby for recognition, Somalia’s federal government maintains that the region remains an integral part of the country. International powers have so far supported Somalia’s territorial integrity, though analysts note that Somaliland’s long-standing stability keeps the recognition debate alive.

The Davos appearance underscores Somaliland’s determination to use global economic platforms to advance its political and economic objectives, even as formal recognition remains elusive.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held high level engagements during the forum, emphasizing the importance of deepening strategic ties between Egypt and Russia. Both leaders underscored the need for sustained collaboration across key sectors, including trade, investment, infrastructure, and development.

The forum brought together representatives from more than 50 countries, alongside regional, continental, and international organizations. Delegates engaged in discussions focused on expanding investment opportunities and boosting trade relations through a mutually beneficial and inclusive approach.

According to participants, the outcomes of the forum are aimed at supporting sustainable development across Africa while advancing the goals of Africa’s Agenda 2063, the African Union’s long term blueprint for economic growth, integration, and prosperity.

The Russia–Africa Forum highlighted a shared vision for enhanced cooperation, with stakeholders stressing the importance of partnerships that promote economic diversification, industrial growth, and long-term development across the continent. The meeting also reinforced Africa’s growing role in global economic and geopolitical discussions.