In a phone call today, July 18, 2025, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, reaffirming the long-standing strategic partnership between the two nations. The conversation highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.
The Secretary and the President discussed the significance of their bilateral relationship, which has been a cornerstone of US engagement in the region for over a decade. They reviewed regional counterterrorism efforts and Djibouti’s valuable contributions to commerce and peacekeeping in Africa. Secretary Rubio expressed his gratitude for Djibouti’s leadership in these areas and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation.
The call came as the international community faces growing concerns about maritime security, terrorism, and piracy in the region. The US and Djibouti have a long history of working together to address these challenges, and Secretary Rubio was clear that the partnership is essential to maintaining stability and promoting peace.
Key Takeaways from the Call
- The Secretary and President Guelleh discussed regional counterterrorism efforts and Djibouti’s role in disrupting terrorist networks in the Horn of Africa.
- They also touched on commercial interests, including US-Djiboutian trade and investment opportunities.
- The two leaders agreed to continue strengthening their partnership on peacekeeping and humanitarian issues.
In a statement, Secretary Rubio said, “The United States is committed to supporting Djibouti’s efforts to maintain regional stability and security. We value our strategic partnership with Djibouti and look forward to continuing to work together to address the complex challenges facing our region.”
The call highlights the enduring importance of the US-Djiboutian relationship, which has been built on shared values of democracy, human rights, and economic development.
A Stronger Partnership for a More Stable Region
The phone call between Secretary Rubio and President Guelleh is a testament to the strength and resilience of their bilateral relationship. As the international community faces new challenges in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa, the US and Djibouti will continue to work together to promote peace, security, and prosperity for all nations in the region.
By reaffirming their commitment to each other, Secretary Rubio and President Guelleh have sent a clear message that their partnership is essential to addressing the complex challenges facing our world today.
Conclusion:
The call between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh marks an important milestone in the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations. As the international community faces growing concerns about maritime security, terrorism, and piracy, the US and Djibouti will continue to work together to promote peace, security, and prosperity for all nations in the region.