HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a photo showing the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, standing alongside Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar.
Foreign Minister Sa’ar, who also shared the image himself, said that the celebratory images coming from Somaliland reflect happiness and hope for a positive future.
“We will continue to work together to strengthen cooperation and friendship between our two nations and peoples,” Minister Sa’ar said.
It is not known exactly when President Cirro traveled to Israel, but reports suggest that he most likely transited through the United Arab Emirates. He has reportedly traveled to the UAE on two occasions during which he was absent from the media for several days and his whereabouts were unknown.
It is believed that President Cirro took this approach to conceal his diplomatic activities from the Federal Government of Somalia, as there was a possibility that Somalia could intervene and attempt to undermine his efforts.
Israel, which was among the first countries to recognize Somaliland in 1960, is once again taking bold steps to be the first country to formally recognize Somaliland today. Israel is also said to be working to encourage the United States government to follow suit, although former President Donald Trump has stated that he would not rush such a decision.
The United Nations Security Council is expected to hold a meeting tomorrow to discuss the recognition of Somaliland. It is likely that a debate will take place there between Israel and countries opposed to recognition, led by Somalia.