"President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to closer cooperation with the international community following Israel’s 'historic' recognition of Somaliland’s statehood on Friday. Speaking from Hargeisa, Abdullahi said the development marked a turning point after decades of de facto self-rule. “After more than three decades of peaceful self-governance, constitutional order and democratic practice, Somaliland has received its first formal international recognition as a sovereign and independent state,” Abdullahi said. “I express my whole-hearted appreciation to the State of Israel for its brave decision, which reflects both historical continuity and confidence in Somaliland's demonstrated commitment to peace, stability and responsible governance,” he added. Abdullahi argued that Somaliland could play a constructive role in regional stability and economic development, including in its relations with Somalia, from which it broke away more than three decades ago. “We firmly assure you that recognition of Somaliland is not a threat, not an act of hostility and not a source of regional tension […] We reaffirm Somaliland's readiness to be admitted to a full membership in all international and regional organisations to fulfil the responsibilities that such membership entails,” he said. Earlier on Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel’s recognition of the Republic of Somaliland and its right to self-determination. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Abdullahi signed a joint declaration formalising the move, according to official statements. The announcement drew criticism from Turkey, the African Union, the Arab League and the Palestinian Authority, while Somalia condemned it as a 'violation' of its territorial integrity. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government during the civil war. Since then, it has operated as a self-governing entity with its own military and state institutions. If confirmed, the move would mark the first time a United Nations member state has formally extended diplomatic recognition to the republic."