Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, has made a historic visit to Somaliland. He held talks with President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi weeks after Israel recognised the region as an independent country.
Saar said Israel wants to build strong ties with Somaliland and move relations forward quickly. President Abdullahi welcomed the visit and described it as a “big day” for Somaliland.
Last month, Israel became the first country to recognise Somaliland. The region declared independence from Somalia more than 30 years ago.
Somalia Rejects the Visit
Somalia has strongly criticised Israel’s decision and Saar’s visit. The Somali government says Somaliland is part of its territory.
Officials in Mogadishu called the visit an unacceptable interference in Somalia’s affairs. They warned that recognition could increase tensions in the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland declared independence in 1991 after the fall of military ruler Siad Barre. Since then, it has governed itself with its own institutions and security forces.
Talks Focus on Cooperation
Saar said his talks with President Abdullahi covered all aspects of relations. He also defended Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland.
“Only Israel will decide who it recognises,” Saar said.
President Abdullahi praised Israel’s move. He called it a courageous decision. He said Somaliland is ready to work with Israel in areas of shared interest.
Saar added that Abdullahi had accepted an invitation to visit Israel. Somaliland officials have not confirmed the visit.
International Criticism Grows
Israel’s decision surprised many governments. It also led to an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
China and Turkey criticised the move. The African Union warned that recognition could set a risky precedent. The European Union said Somalia’s sovereignty should be respected.
The United States defended Israel. US officials accused critics of using double standards when it comes to self-determination.
Somaliland Seeks Wider Recognition
Somaliland hopes Israel’s decision will encourage other countries to follow. Leaders believe recognition will attract investment and strengthen security ties.
However, progress remains slow. India recently denied reports that it planned to recognise Somaliland.
President Abdullahi said Somaliland would consider joining the Abraham Accords. These agreements helped normalise relations between Israel and several Arab states.
Strategic Importance of the Region
Analysts say Israel has strategic reasons for its decision. Somaliland lies near the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
These waterways are vital for global trade. Israel wants partners in the region to support its security interests.
An Israeli security think tank said alliances in the area could help counter threats from Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
Cooperation Plans
Israel has promised to work with Somaliland in agriculture, health, technology, and the economy.
Somaliland officials say Israeli expertise could help improve farming, water access, and healthcare. They also see opportunities in digital technology.
A Sensitive Moment
The visit comes at a tense time for the Horn of Africa. Somalia still faces security threats and political challenges.
Supporters of Somaliland say decades of stability justify recognition. Critics argue the move could weaken Somalia further.
What Comes Next
Israel’s visit has changed the debate around Somaliland’s status. It has drawn global attention back to the issue of recognition.
For Somaliland, the visit marks a major diplomatic milestone. For Israel, it signals a stronger role in Africa and the Red Sea region.
Whether other countries will follow Israel’s lead remains unclear.