Somalia cements bilateral ties with Turkey

ANKARA, Turkey - For the last decade, Somalia has found a dependable friend in Turkey, following Ankara's enormous investment in trade, diplomacy, and security, a strategy that has significantly improved the country's stabilization mission which is in a critical stage.

On Wednesday, Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, Somalia's Upper House speaker, met Turkey's new ambassador to Somalia Alper Aktaş, with the two leaders discussing ways of fostering bilateral relations between the two brotherly nations.

Turkey has significantly invested in security strategy within Somalia, training and equipping the GorGor troops, who are directly involved in the fight against Al-Shabaab. The elite contingent works with US-trained Danab commandos.

Abdullahi, a close ally of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, expressed gratitude for Turkey's unwavering support for Somalia's development and stabilization agenda while acknowledging Ankara's focus on education, security, and humanitarian aid.

“Türkiye has been a great ally and friend to Somalia, providing invaluable assistance and support in our journey towards stability and development. We are eager to strengthen our collaboration and explore new avenues for mutual growth and prosperity,” The Speaker said.

Ambassador Alper Aktaş reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s development and stability, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations and emphasizing his country’s readiness to assist Somalia in achieving its developmental goals.

“Our relationship with Somalia is built on a foundation of mutual respect and brotherhood. We look forward to continuing our support and working together to create a brighter future for both our nations,” he stated.

This comes after it emerged that Turkey is building a $6 million embassy for Somalia in Ankara, as a sign of deep bilateral relations between the two countries. Somalia signed a defense pact with Turkey recently, which would also see Ankara explore oil and other natural resources along the Indian Ocean coastline.

GAROWE ONLINE