By Goth Mohamed Goth
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro), today welcomed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, H.E. Gideon Sa’ar, and a senior delegation at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The President warmly thanked the State and people of Israel for their historic and courageous decision to formally recognize the Republic of Somaliland. He described the move as a landmark step with profound diplomatic, economic, and developmental implications for Somaliland, the Horn of Africa, and the broader international community.
“Today marks a great day for Somaliland,” stated President Cirro. “This recognition strengthens our nation’s role in promoting regional peace, stability, democracy, and freedom of expression. It elevates a strategic partnership built on our shared interests and mutual respect.”
The President highlighted that Israel’s recognition unlocks significant opportunities for cooperation in investment, trade, technology, energy, water resources, minerals, agriculture, and infrastructure development. He reaffirmed Somaliland’s readiness to engage in broad and deep collaboration with Israel.
In response, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed his government’s satisfaction in extending full recognition to Somaliland. He emphasized Israel’s commitment to building a close, multidimensional relationship that benefits both nations and their peoples.
Minister Sa’ar underscored that the recognition is rooted in the right to self-determination of the people of Somaliland and aligns with long-term security and stability interests in the Horn of Africa. He praised Somaliland’s functional democracy, internal peace, and contribution to regional stability.
The Foreign Minister stated clearly that Israel is determined to present Somaliland’s historical legitimacy and sovereignty to the world—a reality long overlooked. He framed the budding partnership as a model for how responsible states can jointly advance international security, sustainable development, and peaceful coexistence.
Minister Sa’ar noted that Israel had previously recognized Somaliland on June 26, 1960, and proudly reaffirms that recognition on December 26, 2025, with a pledge to stand together in the future.
This visit—the first by a sitting Israeli foreign minister to Somaliland in 34 years—marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations. It follows Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland late last year and inaugurates a new chapter of strategic engagement between the two nations.
In closing, President Cirro assured Minister Sa’ar that Somaliland is a steadfast and reliable partner, uniquely positioned to contribute to peace and security in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
