HARGEISA (SD)– Somaliland’s Cabinet has unanimously approved the joint statement signed by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, paving the way for the agreement to be submitted to Somaliland’s House of Representatives for debate and ratification.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, President Irro said all 40 ministers endorsed the agreement without objection, describing it as a broad framework for expanding cooperation between Somaliland and Israel across multiple sectors.

According to the President, the agreement covers collaboration in security, political and diplomatic affairs, economic development, social services, and public infrastructure.

Irro said improving access to clean water is among the government’s highest priorities under the partnership. He stated that the goal is to significantly expand water infrastructure over the next three years, with projects expected to benefit regional capitals, border communities, and rural livestock-dependent areas that are frequently affected by drought.

The President noted that recurring droughts have had a severe impact on Somaliland’s livestock sector, making water development a central focus of the agreement.

He added that the partnership will also promote cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, healthcare, education, technology, mining, and natural gas. Irro said Somaliland aims to benefit from Israel’s expertise in modern agricultural technology to strengthen domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports.

The President emphasized that all international agreements concluded by his administration will be submitted to Somaliland’s legislative bodies to undergo constitutional review and ratification procedures.

The Cabinet’s unanimous approval represents another step in institutionalizing Somaliland’s growing relationship with Israel. By emphasizing water security, agriculture, and economic development alongside security cooperation, the government is presenting the agreement as a long-term development partnership while seeking legislative approval to strengthen its domestic legitimacy.