Somalia hails Türkiye as key strategic ally in energy, security and diplomacy

Relations between Türkiye and Somalia have evolved into a strategic partnership in recent years, with collaboration now extending beyond humanitarian aid into vital sectors such as energy and security, Somali Foreign Minister Ali Mohamed Omar said in an interview with Turkish media.

Highlighting the historical depth and recent transformation of bilateral ties, Omar said: “We value our relations with Türkiye. This is a brotherly relationship built on partnership. Although our cooperation traces back to the Ottoman era, a new chapter was opened during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit amid the famine crisis in 2011.”

Initially focused on humanitarian relief, agricultural development, and education, the partnership has since expanded into more strategically significant areas. Omar emphasised the importance of Türkiye’s investment in Somalia’s energy sector, noting: “With investments in energy, our relations have gained a more strategic dimension.”

In a landmark development last year, Türkiye and Somalia signed an agreement for hydrocarbon exploration and production. Türkiye subsequently dispatched its domestically developed seismic research vessel to conduct surveys for oil and natural gas across three licensed maritime zones off the Somali coast.

Security cooperation has also become a core element of the bilateral relationship. “Türkiye supports us in consolidating Mogadishu’s security infrastructure. It has valuable experience in counterterrorism, and we have much to learn from Ankara,” Omar stated, referring to Somalia’s ongoing struggle against the al-Shabab insurgency. He also underscored Türkiye’s role in training and equipping the Somali Armed Forces.

Türkiye's largest overseas military base, inaugurated in Somalia in 2017, is among the most significant foreign-run military facilities in the country. It plays a critical role in training Somali troops and reinforcing stability.

Omar also praised Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts to mediate between Somalia and Ethiopia, particularly over long-standing disputes exacerbated by Ethiopia’s push for sea access. Tensions escalated last year after Ethiopia signed a controversial deal with Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland, reportedly involving recognition of its independence in exchange for a Red Sea port and military base.

“As neighbors, Somalia and Ethiopia need to maintain good relations despite our historical challenges,” Omar said. “Thanks to Türkiye’s mediation, we have been able to engage in dialogue and address obstacles that had long prevented face-to-face discussions.”

Türkiye initiated mediation efforts in July, facilitating three rounds of talks—two in Ankara and one in New York—culminating in a breakthrough in December that drew praise from the African Union, the United States, and the European Union.

As part of the Ethiopia–Somalia Ankara Declaration, both parties agreed to begin technical negotiations with Turkish facilitation by the end of February 2025, aiming to conclude within four months. The declaration also included commitments to abandon contentious issues and work toward mutual prosperity.

Omar hinted that the trilateral framework involving Türkiye, Somalia, and Ethiopia may reconvene by the end of this month as part of ongoing dialogue under the Ankara Declaration.

“President Erdoğan made this process possible,” he added, crediting Türkiye with playing a pivotal role in unlocking regional diplomatic engagement.

By Tamilla Hasanova