Somaliland marks 35 years of sovereignty, pushes for wider international recognition

Africa, Politics

HARGEISA, Somaliland (NPA) — Somaliland is still celebrating the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its sovereignty, as millions of citizens at home and abroad marked the occasion on May 18 in what authorities described as a powerful demonstration of national unity and pride.

In a statement issued by Hussein Deyr, Spokesperson to the President, the government said the celebrations reflected Somaliland’s unwavering commitment to its sovereignty and independence.

According to the statement, Somaliland’s sovereignty is “not merely a political aspiration, but a deeply held national conviction shared collectively by its people.”

Authorities disclosed that the independence celebrations held in Hargeisa attracted delegations from more than 25 countries, describing the turnout as evidence of Somaliland’s growing diplomatic relevance and international credibility.

“This year’s commemoration also coincided with a major diplomatic milestone, as the President of the State of Israel received the credentials of Somaliland’s first Extraordinary Ambassador accredited to a recognised sovereign state; a powerful symbol of Somaliland’s expanding global engagement and irreversible march toward international recognition,” the statement said.

The government also expressed appreciation to countries and individuals supporting Somaliland’s diplomatic aspirations. “We are a very grateful nation that never forgets those who stand with us,” the statement added.

At the same time, Somaliland issued a strong warning to its opponents, insisting that its journey toward full international recognition is irreversible. “The history of Somaliland as a sovereign nation is moving forward, and there is nothing you can do to stop it,” the government declared.

Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that Israel received Somaliland’s first ambassador following the arrival of Mohamed Hagi, who presented his credentials to Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem.

The diplomatic breakthrough followed Israel’s formal recognition of Somaliland as an independent state on December 26, 2025, making it the first United Nations member state to officially recognise Somaliland’s sovereignty — a move that significantly strengthened Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international recognition and reignited debate over Somalia’s political future.

Here’s a polished version of your paragraph, tightened for clarity and impact while keeping your style intact:

Ambassador Hagi announced today that the Republic of Somaliland will establish its Embassy in Jerusalem, while Israel will open its Embassy in Hargeisa — a move he described as a clear reflection of the deepening friendship, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.