HARGEISA, Somaliland (HornPost) — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi has received the diplomatic credentials of Israel’s newly appointed ambassador, Michael Lotem, in a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The presentation of credentials marks another step in the development of diplomatic relations between Somaliland and Israel.
According to a statement from Somaliland’s presidency, President Abdullahi, widely known as irro, welcomed Lotem and congratulated him on his appointment.
The president said Somaliland wanted to build lasting relations with Israel based on mutual respect, shared interests and long-term cooperation.
Somaliland Seeks Cooperation in Trade and Security
President irro identified several areas where the two sides could expand their partnership.
These include trade, investment, infrastructure, security, defence and technology.
He also highlighted Somaliland’s strategic location along the Gulf of Aden and near the Red Sea.
The president said this position offered opportunities for cooperation. He added that stronger ties could contribute to regional peace, stability and maritime security.
Cirro reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing practical partnerships that would benefit both sides.
Israeli Ambassador Pledges to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Ambassador Michael Lotem thanked the president for welcoming him to Somaliland.
He said it was an honour to represent Israel in Somaliland and pledged to work towards strengthening relations between the two sides.
Lotem identified security and defence, trade, investment, technology, healthcare and education as key areas for cooperation.
He also expressed his commitment to turning shared priorities into practical projects that benefit both countries.
Israel Confirms Embassy Plans in Hargeisa
Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed the presentation of Lotem’s credentials in a statement published on Sunday.
The ministry said the ceremony took place last week at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
It added that a cornerstone-laying ceremony for Israel’s new embassy in Hargeisa followed the presentation of credentials.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the appointment of ambassadors was an important step in strengthening relations.
“Israel is determined to develop and strengthen its relations with Somaliland,” Sa’ar said.
He added that the appointment followed an agreement reached when the two sides established mutual recognition.
Diplomatic Relations Since December 2025
Israel and Somaliland announced mutual recognition and the establishment of diplomatic relations on December 26, 2025.
Since then, both sides have taken steps to develop formal diplomatic ties.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Hargeisa in January 2026. During the visit, he discussed cooperation with Somaliland’s leadership.
Somaliland later opened its embassy in Jerusalem during President Cirro’s visit to Israel in June 2026.
In May 2026, Israel also received the credentials of Mohamed Hagi, Somaliland’s first ambassador to Israel.
However, Israel’s recognition remains disputed. Somalia’s federal government rejects Somaliland’s independence and considers the territory part of Somalia. The dispute has also drawn opposition from several regional and international governments.
The appointment of ambassadors and plans for diplomatic missions mark a further development in relations between Hargeisa and Jerusalem, with both sides seeking closer cooperation in economic, security and diplomatic affairs.
HornPost Staff Reporter
Email: info@hornpost.com
Website: https://www.hornpost.com
