HARGEISA, Somaliland (HornPost) Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and Israel’s Ambassador to Somaliland, Michael Lotem, have pledged to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation across several sectors following the formal presentation and acceptance of the ambassador’s letters of credence at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa.
The ceremony marked what President Irro described as a historic moment for Somaliland, saying it was the first time a Somaliland president had received an ambassador’s letters of credence.
In his remarks, Irro welcomed Ambassador Lotem and congratulated him on his appointment, describing his arrival as an important milestone in the growing relationship between Somaliland and Israel.
“Today is a historical day,” the president said, adding that the occasion would remain in the memories of Somalilanders.
Irro said Somaliland attached great importance to its relationship with Israel and viewed the partnership as extending beyond diplomatic engagement to include political relations, economic development, trade and investment, security and defense, technology, innovation, agriculture, healthcare and social development.
He said the two sides had opportunities to complement each other, pointing to Israel’s technological capabilities and innovation alongside Somaliland’s strategic geographical position and economic potential.
The president emphasized the need to translate diplomatic engagement into practical cooperation that benefits both populations.
“We are particularly committed to advancing practical cooperation that delivers tangible benefits to our people,” Irro said.
He added that stronger bilateral ties could help strengthen institutions, create economic opportunities and contribute to regional stability, peace and security.
Irro also highlighted Somaliland’s strategic location along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, saying cooperation between the two sides carried wider regional and international significance.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing long-term relations with Israel and expressed confidence that the ambassador’s appointment would open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
Israeli Ambassador Highlights Recognition and Strategic Partnership
In his response, Israeli Ambassador Michael Lotem described presenting his letters of credence to President Irro as a profound honor and conveyed greetings from the Israeli government and people.
Lotem said Israel was proud to become the first United Nations member state to formally recognize the sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland.
He said the decision reflected recognition of Somaliland’s achievements over more than three decades, particularly its political stability and democratic institutions.
“Amid a volatile region, Somaliland has built a magnificent, enduring bastion of democracy rooted in peace, institutional stability, and the proud principles of representative government,” Lotem said.
The ambassador noted that Somaliland and Israel faced security challenges but shared a strategic outlook focused on peace and stability.
He described the emerging relationship as an “Alliance Between the Brave,” highlighting the strategic opportunities and challenges facing both countries.
Lotem also referred to President Irro’s earlier visit to Israel and the establishment of Somaliland’s embassy in Jerusalem, saying these developments had laid a strong foundation for bilateral relations.
Cooperation in Security, Technology and Economic Development
The Israeli ambassador said his main responsibility would be to transform diplomatic progress into long-term benefits for both populations.
He identified economic and business cooperation, security, science and culture as areas in which the two sides could develop closer partnerships.
“Israel stands with Somaliland as a reliable partner in your pursuit of international engagement, security, economic growth, and, of course, recognition,” Lotem said.
He concluded by thanking President Irro, government ministers, Somaliland’s ambassador to Israel and other officials for their hospitality.
Lotem described the presentation of his credentials as one of the most meaningful moments in his 33-year diplomatic career.
The joint statements underscore the two sides’ intention to develop their diplomatic relationship into broader political, economic and strategic cooperation, with potential implications for the Horn of Africa and the wider Red Sea region.
HornPost Staff Reporter
Email: info@hornpost.com
Website: https://www.hornpost.com
