Israel and Somaliland have been cooperating "under the radar" for years, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed Wednesday during a meeting with the leader of the separatist African region.
In December, Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland since it declared its autonomy from Somalia in 1991, following a civil war.
"Israel and Somaliland have a long-standing friendship based on shared interests, democratic values, and a commitment to security and stability," he said.
For many years, we have cooperated under the radar in a series of activities that will remain secret," Katz said, according to a statement from his office.
"Now we are determined to bring our security cooperation to new heights – for the benefit of both peoples and for the stability of the region," he added, as he met with Somaliland's leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi.
