Istanbul, Türkiye — In a significant boost to Somalia–Türkiye defence relations, the Minister of Defence of Somalia, Ahmed Fiqi, and Türkiye’s Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler, today signed Amendment Protocol Number 1 to the Implementation Protocol of the Financial Assistance Agreement originally concluded on 17 July 2019.
The signing ceremony, held in Istanbul, marks a strategic recalibration of the original agreement, ushering in a new phase of enhanced military cooperation between the two nations. The revised protocol underscores Türkiye’s continued commitment to supporting Somalia’s security sector, with particular emphasis on building the capacity of the Somali National Army (SNA).
According to officials, the updated protocol outlines improved frameworks for delivering critical support in areas including training, equipment provision, and institutional development. The agreement also reflects broader geopolitical cooperation between Mogadishu and Ankara, built on shared interests in regional stability and long-term development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Fiqi described the amendment as “a milestone in our enduring partnership,” highlighting that the Federal Government of Somalia remains committed to the responsible and transparent use of Türkiye’s assistance.
“This revised agreement demonstrates our resolve to align foreign military support with Somalia’s national priorities and the long-term professionalization of our defence forces,” Fiqi said.
Türkiye has emerged as one of Somalia’s closest security and development allies over the past decade. Through initiatives such as the TURKSOM military academy in Mogadishu, Türkiye has trained thousands of Somali soldiers and contributed significantly to the rebuilding of the Somali armed forces.
The agreement comes at a time when Somalia is intensifying efforts to take full security responsibility from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), with international backing playing a crucial role in sustaining progress against terrorist groups and restoring state authority across the country.
Today’s development signals a strengthening of Somalia’s sovereignty and defence posture, as well as Türkiye’s continued investment in fostering regional security in the Horn of Africa.