Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Monday received Somaliland's first ambassador in Jerusalem, after Israel became the first country to recognize the breakaway region on the Horn of Africa last year.
Mohamed Hagi presented his credentials at the president's official residence. Herzog spoke of a "unique opportunity" for dialogue with Muslim countries in the region, according to his office.
"You are facing many challenges, and we are here to assist and help with all the important fields of life, from food security, to energy, to science in order to enjoy prosperity together," Herzog was quoted as saying in the statement.
Hagi spoke of a strategic relationship between the two countries that would pave the way forward in many areas.
“The people of Somaliland very much appreciate that Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland in 1960, and again, after 35 years of independence and sovereignty, Israel again became the first country that recognized Somaliland," Hagi said, according to the statement released by Herzog's office.
Israel became the first country in the world to recognize the Muslim-majority region in northern Somalia as an independent state in December. Somaliland has been de facto independent for more than three decades.
Israel appointed a first ambassador to Somaliland last month.
Several regional powers condemned Israel's move. Somalia firmly rejects Israel's recognition of its breakaway region.
