Somalia: Turkish delegation visits Puntland

GAROWE, Somalia-A Turkish delegation led by the former Ambassador to Somalia and the current ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) Bursa deputy Cemalettin Kani Torun has arrived to warm welcome in the northeastern State of Puntland on Wednesday, Garowe Online reports.

Puntland Parliament Speaker Ahmed Ali Hashi and cabinet ministers received the delegation, among them new Turkish envoy Olgan Bakar at Garowe airport.

The Turkish diplomats held a closed-door meeting with Puntland President Abdiweli Mohamed Ali shortly after their arrival at the State House.

Ali said during a joint press conference with Torun that their discussions centered on development projects, social services delivery and humanitarian assistance by Turkey.

“They have come here to discuss relations between Turkey and Puntland. Also, we have conversed on development projects, Turkey’s role in consolidation of Somali peace process and humanitarian assistance,” said Puntland President.

On his side, Turkish deputy thanked for the warm reception accorded to him in Garow e, saying his trip aims at speeding up Turkey-sponsored development programs in Somalia.

The visit marks the third by Turkish officials, and at this time it coincides with political deliberations on newly adopted electoral proposal that spawned controversy between Mogadishu and Garowe.

GAROWEONLINE