Mogadishu, Somalia – The Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu on Thursday evening hosted a vibrant ceremony marking the 102nd anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye — a celebration that drew Somalia’s top leadership, foreign diplomats, and friends of Türkiye in a testament to a partnership rooted in trust and shared purpose.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre led the Somali delegation, joined by several cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from international organizations. The event, held within the Turkish Embassy’s compound, carried an air of warmth and mutual appreciation as both nations celebrated a century of Türkiye’s statehood and a decade-long brotherhood that continues to deepen.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Barre praised Türkiye’s enduring support for Somalia’s reconstruction and development, recalling how Ankara stood beside the Somali people during times of crisis — from humanitarian aid and infrastructure development to military training and education.
“Türkiye’s friendship with Somalia is not transactional; it is a bond built on sincerity and shared values,” he said, emphasizing the model of cooperation the two countries have established.
Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktaş, welcomed the guests with words of gratitude and pride, highlighting Türkiye’s journey since its founding in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s steadfast commitment to Somalia’s stability and progress, noting that the relationship between the two countries has grown beyond diplomacy into genuine brotherhood.
The evening featured cultural performances blending Somali and Turkish traditions — from music and poetry to culinary delights that reflected the unity of cultures. An exhibition showcased Türkiye’s milestones over the past century alongside key achievements in Somali-Turkish cooperation, including major infrastructure projects, education programs, and humanitarian efforts.
Türkiye remains one of Somalia’s closest allies and most active partners in reconstruction. Its investments in health, education, and security — including the Turkish-Somali Training and Cooperation Center and the Digfer Hospital in Mogadishu — continue to symbolize a friendship anchored in tangible impact.
As the night concluded with a rendition of both nations’ anthems, the spirit of solidarity was unmistakable. For many attendees, the 102nd Republic Day celebration was more than an anniversary — it was a reaffirmation of a partnership that has stood firm through adversity and continues to chart a hopeful path for the future of both nations.