Somalia president signs into law ratified defense pact with Turkey

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The defense pact between Somalia and Turkey is now law after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud appended his signature on Thursday, following unanimous approval by Parliament, which insisted that the deal was important for the Horn of Africa nation.

There have been concerns that the deal is meant to counter the breakaway region of Somaliland's recent agreement with Ethiopia, which has been widely condemned by members of the international community. Ethiopia wants 20 kilometers of Red Sea in Somalia at the expense of recognizing Somaliland.

In a statement, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said the pact 'marks a new chapter in our nation's journey towards a secure and prosperous future' while lauding parliament for heeding calls to ratify the agreement which had been drafted in early February.

"The agreement embodies a shared commitment to combating all forms of illegal activities and will enable us to build a capable naval force essential for our maritime security," he said. "The pact will also bolster our blue economy, develop crucial economic sectors, and create opportunities for our people and the region."

"We are deeply grateful to the brotherly Republic of Türkiye for their unwavering and timely support and commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region" he added, while insisting that the agreement is not a reactionary move to Ethiopia’s aggression.

Turkey is a major security and development partner of Somalia, and it has been actively involved in the fight against Al-Shabaab. The militants have repeatedly attacked Turkish nationals in Somalia in revenge for the close partnership between Ankara and Mogadishu.

GorGor troops are trained by Turkey in Somalia and are vital in the war against Alshabab militants. If fully implemented, the deal would also assist the government of Somalia to decisively deal with piracy, which is resurrecting in Somalia waters after years of relative calmness.

GAROWE ONLINE