Somaliland opens Jerusalem embassy after Israel's recognition of its independence

The breakaway state of Somaliland opened an embassy in Jerusalem, six months after Israel became the first country to recognise it as an independent nation.

The diplomatic mission was opened at a technology park in West Jerusalem while Somaliland's President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi was on an official visit to Israel.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke of a deep spiritual bond between their peoples, praising Somaliland’s move.

However, Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, condemned engagements with the secessionist administration as a violation of its sovereignty.

Israel’s recognition of Somaliland last December was met with criticism from China, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the African Union.

The location of the embassy in Jerusalem, instead of Tel Aviv where most foreign missions are based, was appreciated by Netanyahu and symbolic of his stance on Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital.

Both leaders touted future cooperation on natural resources, including rare‑earth minerals and oil, and Somaliland’s strategic coast near the Red Sea.

Somaliland has governed itself since 1991, holding elections, issuing currency and maintaining relative stability, but its independence had not been internationally recognised until Israel’s move.

Somalia’s foreign ministry issued a statement urging international partners to uphold international law and condemn actions undermining Somali unity.

For additional coverage on Somaliland, visit BBCAfrica.com.