In a landmark moment in the diplomatic history, the President of Somaliland formally Abdirahman Abdullahi Irro received and accepted the Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Somaliland, Michael Lotem, marking a historic milestone in relations between the two sides.
In a joint communiqué issued following the ceremony on Sunday, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, expanding diplomatic cooperation and exploring opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
Somaliland president called the moment as “historic day that every Somalilander will remember”.
Ambassador Michael Lotem stated that Israel will cooperate in partnership with Somaliland on areas on security, science, economic development and international recognition for Somaliland.
Michael Lotem becomes first Israeli ambassador to Somaliland following the Israeli recognition in December 2025. Somaliland has also extablished its diplomatic presence in Israel in June.