people · May 16, 2026
Israel’s First Ambassador to Somaliland Acclaims Deepening Partnership, Broader Strategic Outreach in Africa
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Michael Lotem, Israel’s first ambassador to Somaliland appointed in April 2026, hailed the rapid evolution of relations with Somaliland into a strategic partnership covering security, energy, infrastructure, and technology. The partnership forms part of Israel’s broader diplomatic outreach across Africa, prioritized by Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. Israel became the first country to officially recognize Somaliland in December 2025, establishing full diplomatic ties. Michael Lotem previously served as non-resident economic ambassador to Africa and concluded his ambassadorship to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Seychelles in August 2025.