Somalia is set to tighten its defense and energy cooperation with Turkey following a meeting held in Ankara between ministers from the two countries.
Minister of Defense Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur represented Somalia at the Monday meeting.
He was joined by Turkish ministers Yaşar Güler and Alparslan Bayraktar of defense and energy respectively.
This development comes as both nations seek to enhance their strategic partnership.
Turkey has been a key ally to Somalia, providing significant support in areas such as military training, infrastructure development, and humanitarian aid.
Turkey’s involvement in Somalia’s defense sector includes training Somali soldiers, equipping them, and providing logistical support to strengthen the country’s security forces.
This partnership has been crucial in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, particularly against al-Shabab militants.
In the energy sector, cooperation may focus on exploring Somalia’s untapped oil and gas resources.
Turkish companies have shown interest in investing in Somalia’s energy infrastructure, which could help Somalia address its energy shortages and pave the way for economic growth.
Strengthening ties in these areas aligns with Turkey’s broader strategic interests in the Horn of Africa, aiming to bolster economic and political stability in the region.