What Turkish spy chief discussed with Somalia president Hassan Sheikh

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The government of Turkey is coming out as a strategic partner for the federal republic of Somalia, with the cooperation ranging from social-economic transformation, political stability, and much-needed security partnerships.

Ibrahim Kalin, Turkey's head of the National Intelligence Organisation (MIT), held a meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, in what comes a few weeks after Somalia signed defense partnerships with Turkey along with oil exploration deal.

The team discussed ways of close partnerships on matters of security, counterterrorism, and sharing of intelligence, a strategy geared towards promoting national stability. Turkey has had close cooperation with Somalia for the last 13 years.

"They discussed ways to further strengthen Türkiye-Somalia strategic cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including security, intelligence, joint counter-terrorism efforts, and promoting regional stability," Villa Somalia noted.

In attendance was Somalia’s head of the National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA) Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, who assumed the responsibilities in April. Previously, he held the post before resigning to join diplomatic missions.

In February, Türkiye signed a defense and economic cooperation agreement with Somalia and will provide maritime security support to help the African country defend its territorial waters.

Turkey also trains the elite GorGor soldiers, who play a vital role in the fight against Al-Shabaab. In response, Al-Shabaab has often attacked key infrastructure supported by Turkey in Somalia, including army bases where the elite troops train.

The deal signed in February is geared toward protecting Somalia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, following threats from Ethiopia. The Turkish warships are expected to arrive in Somalia’s 3,333 kilometers coastline which is also prone to piracy.

GAROWE ONLINE