FTL Somalia

Somalia Partners with Turkey’s OYAK to Advance the Blue Economy

ANKARA, Turkey – Somalia’s Federal Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Adan, concluded a major accord today with the Turkish conglomerate OYAK. The Ankara signing ceremony launches the Cooperation and Marine Production Development initiative, intended to safeguard and optimize the country’s maritime assets.

The minister was welcomed at OYAK headquarters by Turkiye’s Minister of National Defense, underscoring the elevated significance of the talks. Adan highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, emphasizing its goal, which is to direct investment into Somalia’s marine economy infrastructure.

The accord concentrates on increasing fish production to align with international market requirements, creating local processing facilities, and enhancing the technical expertise of Somali fishermen. This initiative is projected to modernize the industry while incorporating Somali products into the worldwide supply chain.

Attended by Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Marine Transport,  Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and the Fisheries Ministry Director General, Abdi Dirshe, the accord gives special attention to maritime security. It encompasses comprehensive measures against illegal fishing and seeks to create thousands of jobs, particularly for youth and populations in coastal regions.

Ahmed praised the Turkish government and OYAK for their trust in Somalia’s improving stability. He observed that this significant investment showcases the nation’s progress and growing attractiveness to international businesses dedicated to economic growth and employment generation.

In response, leaders from Turkish defense, agriculture and forestry, and foreign affairs ministries, along with OYAK officials, recognized the strategic importance of the accord. They thanked the Somali government for confidence in Turkish investment proposals, confirming that such initiatives reinforce the historic and fraternal connection between the two countries.