Hargeisa: Abdul Rafay Afzal, Editor-in-Chief of The Advocate Post and an international journalist, lawyer, and global affairs and policy advisor, held a meeting with Dr. Madar, Executive Director of the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs of Somaliland, at his office in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Hargeisa.
During the meeting, Abdul Rafay Afzal formally congratulated Dr. Madar on the successful completion of the first cohort of the Institute’s academic session, a landmark achievement for Somaliland’s evolving diplomatic and institutional landscape. The inaugural program was conducted in collaboration and association with the University of Hargeisa and in partnership with the Diplomatic Institute of Ethiopia, reflecting a growing regional and international academic engagement. Hassan Ahmed Yusuf, Technical Advisor to Diaspora Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Somaliland was also part of the discussion and meeting.
The discussions underscored the strategic importance of the Institute in strengthening diplomatic education, professional training, and capacity-building in Somaliland. Both sides acknowledged that the successful completion of the first cohort represents a critical step toward developing a skilled diplomatic cadre capable of navigating complex regional and global affairs.
Dr. Madar highlighted the Institute’s vision to serve as a hub for diplomatic learning and policy-oriented research, while also expressing strong willingness to cooperate and collaborate with diplomatic academies and institutes around the world. He emphasized that international partnerships are essential to ensuring global best practices, academic excellence, and practical exposure for future diplomats and policymakers from Somaliland.
Abdul Rafay Afzal commended the Institute’s leadership and institutional direction, noting that such initiatives play a vital role in enhancing Somaliland’s diplomatic capacity and international engagement. He also reiterated the importance of media, policy dialogue, and international collaboration in amplifying Somaliland’s institutional achievements and fostering constructive global partnerships.
The meeting concluded with mutual appreciation and a shared commitment to supporting initiatives that advance diplomatic education, international cooperation, and policy innovation in Somaliland, positioning the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs as a key pillar in the country’s long-term foreign policy and institutional development.
