Somaliland leader signals openness to 'Israeli' investment, port access
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Somaliland leader welcomes Israeli investment, hints at potential port access.
- Highlights strategic location, natural resources, and trade security amid Red Sea tensions.
The president of the self-declared Somaliland region, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, expressed strong support for 'Israeli' investment, suggesting that 'Israeli' companies could even gain access to local ports.
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In an interview with 'Israeli' newspaper Globes on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Abdullahi described Somaliland’s natural resources, ports, tourism, and agriculture as “strategic opportunities.” He invited Israeli entrepreneurs to explore projects in the region, emphasizing that Somaliland is “rich in resources and welcomes investment.”
Strategic Importance Amid Maritime Threats
Abdullahi noted the region’s strategic location for securing maritime navigation, particularly after attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement targeting Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea, which disrupted about 12 percent of global maritime trade. He said, “Somaliland is important for global shipping, and relations with Israel are also important.”
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The president highlighted the region’s wealth in minerals, oil, gas, livestock, and arable land, suggesting these resources could contribute to global food security, and Israel’s in particular.
Business Opportunities for Israeli Entrepreneurs
He encouraged Israeli business leaders to invest in sectors including energy, tourism, agriculture, livestock, aviation, and finance. Abdullahi framed Somaliland as open to global partnerships, noting that Israel is the first country to formally recognize the breakaway region.
Airspace Dispute with Somalia
Abdullahi also criticized Somalia’s restriction on 'Israeli' airline Arkia from flying through its airspace, calling it “unacceptable to impede civilian aviation”, underscoring ongoing regional tensions over air routes.
