In a significant diplomatic encounter on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro held a high-profile dinner meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The gathering, also attended by Eric Trump, son of the U.S. President, underscored the rapidly advancing relations between Somaliland and Israel following Israel’s groundbreaking recognition of Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025—the first such move by any UN member nation.
The meeting unfolded in an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared strategic goals. Discussions centered on deepening state-to-state cooperation across key sectors, including security and defense, technology, agriculture, water management, health, energy and minerals, and community development. Both leaders emphasized joint efforts to promote peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
President Irro expressed profound gratitude for Israel’s “historic, courageous, and bold” recognition, which came after 34 years of Somaliland’s de facto independence. He reaffirmed Somaliland’s commitment as a reliable partner, highlighting its track record of stability, democracy, good governance, and adherence to the rule of law.
President Herzog echoed the positive sentiment in his public statement: “I was delighted to meet here in Davos with the President of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Abdilahi. I welcome the establishment of diplomatic relations between us and look forward to deepening cooperation for the benefit of both our peoples.”
President Irro similarly shared on social media: “Last night, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, I had the honor of sharing a dinner meeting with the President of the State of Israel, His Excellency Isaac Herzog. Our discussions focused on strengthening and advancing the relations between the two governments of the Republic of Somaliland and the State of Israel. The meeting was also attended by prominent politicians and global leaders from all corners of the world, as well as influential figures on the international stage, including Eric Trump, the son of the President of the United States.”
The presence of Eric Trump added a notable international dimension, signaling potential broader alignment involving the United States amid Somaliland’s push for wider recognition.
This encounter marks a pivotal moment for Somaliland, transitioning from decades of diplomatic isolation to active engagement on the global stage. It highlights Somaliland’s emergence as a stable, democratic partner in a volatile region, poised to contribute to international peace and security through expanding friendships and strategic partnerships.