Somaliland's defense minister stated clearly that there is no Israeli military presence in the country and no negotiations underway to establish any kind of base. Mohamed Yusef Ali spoke to Reuters on Wednesday on the sidelines of a business event in Tel Aviv.

He confirmed that Israel continues to provide training to Somaliland security forces including both military and police units. However he dismissed circulating reports about base negotiations as mere rumors.

Israel's ambassador to Somaliland Michael Lotem offered no comment on the matter.

Somaliland has maintained practical autonomy along with relative stability since declaring separation from Somalia in 1991 amid that nation's civil conflict. Its location on the Horn of Africa gives it notable strategic value.

Israel became the first nation to grant formal recognition to Somaliland as an independent state last December. Somalia strongly rejected the move and described it as an infringement on its sovereignty.

Earlier this year Somaliland's president indicated to Reuters that future security cooperation with Israel remains possible though no talks about bases have taken place.

Recent media claims suggested an intelligence facility had already opened along with discussions on a potential military installation but these were not confirmed by either government.

Diplomatic ties between Israel and Somaliland expand rapidly

Following formal establishment of relations in December the two sides moved quickly to develop practical cooperation. Somaliland's president arrived in Israel with a delegation for further talks.

The new Somaliland embassy in Israel will be located in Jerusalem as announced by its ambassador last month.

A group of pro-Palestinian countries voiced opposition to the growing partnership and labeled it unlawful. Despite the criticism bilateral engagement has continued without interruption.