Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has described Somaliland as a pro-Western and Israel-friendly democracy during a visit to Hargeisa, the capital of the self-administered Somaliland region.
The visit marked as the first visit by a senior Israeli official following Israel’s stated position toward Somaliland. During his visit, Sa’ar said Somaliland has maintained democratic governance for more than three decades, citing what he described as peaceful and democratic elections recently held in Hargeisa.
He added that Somaliland’s democratic political system has shaped its pro-Western orientation and friendly stance toward Israel.
“Israel is honored to be the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state,” Sa’ar was quoted as saying.
In a statement, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said delegations from Hargeisa and Tel Aviv held extensive discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, peace and security, and investment.
The ministry described the Israeli delegation’s visit as a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations.
