ANKARA — Somalia and Türkiye have officially commenced the implementation of a bilateral labor cooperation agreement originally signed in June 2016, marking a significant step in strengthening social and economic ties between the two nations.
The launch ceremony, held in Ankara, was co-chaired by Turkish Minister of Labour and Social Security, Prof. Dr. Vedat Işıkhan, and Somalia’s Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Prof. Salim Aliyoow Ibro. The event was attended by Somalia’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Director General Mr. Yusuf Hassan, and high-ranking delegations from both governments.
Following the signing, officials convened a technical meeting to finalize a strategic roadmap. The delegations agreed on 15 key action points to be executed between 2026 and 2027. These initiatives are designed to enhance cooperation in critical sectors, including employment generation, vocational training, skills development, and the improvement of occupational safety and health standards.
Strengthening Institutions Both parties expressed a strong commitment to expediting the agreement’s execution. The primary objective is to reinforce Somalia’s labor institutions and social service frameworks by leveraging Turkish expertise. This move aligns with the broader goal of fostering enduring collaboration between Mogadishu and Ankara.
A Deepening Partnership This labor agreement is the latest development in a rapidly expanding portfolio of bilateral cooperation. Türkiye has become one of Somalia’s most significant strategic partners, with deep ties in security, defense, and economic development.
Recently, Minister of Defence Jibril A. Haji called for accelerated defense cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye, highlighting the robust nature of the relationship. This partnership is further cemented by the Defense and Economic Cooperation Agreement signed earlier, which President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has described as vital for protecting Somalia’s maritime resources.
Beyond policy, the cooperation has tangible results on the ground. Türkiye’s training mission continues to reshape Somalia’s security forces, with thousands of Somali soldiers receiving elite training at Camp TURKSOM in Mogadishu. The activation of the labor pact signals a shift to broaden this partnership beyond security into social welfare and human capital development.
