Friends of Zion (FoZ) founder Dr. Mike Evans said that he intends to speak with US President Donald Trump regarding the importance of the United States recognizing Somaliland during a special award ceremony held at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem on Thursday.
"It's time to bless all states that bless Israel," he said. "Somaliland has shown genuine friendship toward the Jewish state, and I intend to speak with US President Donald Trump about the importance of formal American recognition of Somaliland."
During the ceremony, held at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi received the Friends of Zion Award in honor of the opening of Somaliland's embassy in Jerusalem and the country's friendship with Israel.
The ceremony was attended by diplomats, business leaders, Christian leaders, and other distinguished guests from across the globe.
"It is a great honor for me to receive the Friends of Zion Award,” said Abdullahi at the ceremony. “I am deeply moved and grateful for this recognition.”
“This award symbolizes the growing friendship and strengthening ties between Somaliland and Israel. We are committed to further deepening the relationship between our peoples and building a future based on cooperation, mutual respect, and friendship.”
Abdullahi concluded by thanking Evans and the organization for bestowing him with the award.
Somaliland's new embassy in Jerusalem sends clear message of respect
Evans noted that "at a time when Israel faces complex security and diplomatic challenges, true friendship carries special significance.”
“President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi has demonstrated leadership, courage, and vision in advancing relations with Israel and strengthening the bonds between our peoples,” he said. “The decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem sends a clear message of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation."
“On behalf of millions of Friends of Zion supporters around the world, we are proud to present President Abdullahi with the Friends of Zion Award and recognize his commitment to the historic and enduring relationship between the Jewish people and the State of Israel,” he said.
Since its establishment by Shimon Peres, the Friends of Zion Award has been presented to approximately 26 world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, former US President George W. Bush, and former US Vice President Mike Pence.