Republic of Somaliland’s President H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro announced what he described as a historic milestone for Somaliland, stating that Israel has become the first country in 35 years to officially recognize the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state.
In a statement released today, President Irro expressed his “deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation” to Benjamin Netanyahu, the Government of Israel, and the Israeli people for what he called a “courageous and historic decision” affirming Somaliland’s nationhood, independence, and right to self-determination.
“This courageous and historic decision stands as a testament to the resilience, political maturity, and unwavering aspirations of the people of Somaliland,” President Irro said.
The President highlighted Somaliland’s achievements over the past three decades, emphasizing its commitment to peace, democratic governance, stability, and the democratic will of its citizens.
According to the announcement, Somaliland and Israel have also signed a Strategic Joint Declaration of Cooperation, establishing the foundation for a long-term partnership between the two nations.
The agreement is expected to deepen collaboration in key sectors, including agriculture, water management, security, technology, investment, economic development, and infrastructure.
President Irro stated that the partnership would be built on mutual respect, security, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving the prosperity and well-being of both peoples.
“We firmly believe that Somaliland and Israel will build a deep and enduring partnership founded on mutual respect, security, innovation, development, and a shared commitment to advancing the prosperity and well-being of our peoples,” he said.
The recognition marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international recognition and is expected to have far-reaching implications for its diplomatic and economic engagement with the international community.
Calling the development a historic victory, President Irro declared that the achievement would leave an enduring mark on Somaliland’s history and open a new chapter of partnership, opportunity, and international cooperation.
The statement concluded with a message of national pride and triumph:
“Somaliland prevailed”