President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro) has formally received the diplomatic credentials of Israel’s Ambassador to Somaliland, Michael Lotem, in a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa, marking a significant step in advancing diplomatic relations and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
The presentation of credentials represents a new milestone in the developing relationship between Somaliland and Israel, paving the way for expanded diplomatic engagement and cooperation across several strategic sectors.
President Irro warmly welcomed Ambassador Lotem and congratulated him on his appointment, describing his arrival as an important development in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing the strategic partnership between the two sides.
The President reaffirmed Somaliland’s commitment to building a lasting relationship with Israel based on mutual respect, shared interests and sustainable cooperation. He highlighted opportunities for collaboration in politics, economic infrastructure, trade, investment, security and technology.
Emphasising Somaliland’s strategic geographical position along the Gulf of Aden and near the Red Sea, President Irro said the country’s location offers significant opportunities for bilateral cooperation and joint contributions to regional peace, stability and security.
He further underscored his administration’s determination to deepen the multifaceted relationship between the two countries and their peoples, guided by a shared long-term vision and practical initiatives capable of delivering tangible benefits.
For his part, Ambassador Michael Lotem, an Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, thanked President Irro for the warm reception, describing his appointment as Israel’s representative to the Republic of Somaliland as a great honour.
He pledged to work towards strengthening diplomatic relations and advancing strategic cooperation, particularly in security and defence, trade, investment, technology, healthcare and education.
Ambassador Lotem noted that enhanced collaboration in these areas would serve the mutual interests of both countries while contributing to peace, stability and development across the region.
He also expressed his determination to translate the shared aspirations of Somaliland and Israel into concrete achievements that would benefit both countries and their respective peoples.
The ceremony underscores Somaliland’s efforts to expand its international diplomatic engagement and develop strategic partnerships in areas of mutual economic, technological and security interest.