The expanding scope of cooperation between Türkiye and Somalia has significantly strengthened bilateral relations, according to Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ali Mohamed Omar, who also praised Ankara’s active role in mediating regional challenges.
Speaking to Daily Sabah, Minister Omar emphasized that the relationship between the two nations has evolved into a strategic partnership, particularly through collaboration in the areas of security and energy.
“We value our relations with Türkiye. This is a brotherly relationship built on partnership. Although our cooperation dates back to the Ottoman era, a new chapter began with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit during the peak of the famine in 2011,” Omar noted.
Initially centered around humanitarian aid, agriculture, and education, the bilateral cooperation has since expanded into more strategic sectors.
“With Türkiye’s investment in the energy sector, our ties have deepened. Our partnership has truly taken on a strategic dimension,” he added.
In the summer of 2023, Ankara and Mogadishu signed a key agreement on hydrocarbon exploration and production. Later in the year, Türkiye deployed its domestically developed seismic research vessel to Somalia to begin oil and gas surveys in three licensed maritime zones.
Minister Omar further underlined Türkiye’s vital role in enhancing Somalia’s security architecture.
“There is strong cooperation between Türkiye and Somalia aimed at strengthening Mogadishu’s security infrastructure. Türkiye has significant experience in counterterrorism, and we have much to learn from Ankara. Additionally, Türkiye continues to support the development of Somalia’s armed forces,” he explained, highlighting Türkiye’s assistance in combatting the al-Shabab militant group.
Türkiye’s largest overseas military training base, inaugurated in 2017, is situated in Somalia and remains one of the most prominent foreign-run military installations in the country.
