Israeli Defense Minister Meets Somaliland President, Reveals Years of Secret Cooperation

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz met today with visiting Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, stating that Israel has been engaged in 'secret' cooperation with Somaliland for many years.

According to AFP, since Somaliland declared independence from Somalia following a civil war in 1991, Israel became the first country in December last year to formally recognize its sovereignty.

Katz issued a statement saying, 'Israel and Somaliland have long maintained friendly relations based on shared interests, democratic values, and a commitment to security and stability. For years, we have quietly cooperated on various matters, and the details will remain confidential.'

Katz's office noted that the meeting with Abdirahman focused on discussing ways to 'deepen bilateral cooperation in security, economic, and political areas.'

Located along the Gulf of Aden, Somaliland holds significant strategic importance and maintains its own currency, passport, and military. However, due to concerns among many countries that recognizing Somaliland could provoke Somalia and encourage other separatist movements across Africa, it has not gained widespread international recognition.

Abdirahman arrived in Israel on June 14, marking his first state visit since taking office, during which Somaliland established its embassy in Jerusalem. (Compiled by Hung Pei-Ying) 1150617