MOGADISHU — Somalia and Turkey have significantly escalated their defense and economic cooperation this week, as high-ranking Turkish naval officials and a fleet of vessels arrived in Mogadishu.
The State Minister of Defense, H.E. Omar Abdi Ali, welcomed a high-level delegation led by the Turkish Navy Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Mustafa Kaya, at his office. Simultaneously, officials greeted the arrival of Turkish naval assets at the port, marking a critical phase in the nation’s maritime strategy.
Exploration and Security Vessels
According to Mogadishu port officials, the arriving fleet includes an oil exploration and drilling ship docked alongside security support vessels. These assets were deployed under a bilateral agreement with Ankara regarding offshore oil survey and drilling operations.
Initially, Somalia and Turkey intended to commence offshore drilling by late 2025, but the schedule was extended to early 2026. With the Turkish ships now in Mogadishu, drilling operations are anticipated to begin shortly.
High-Level Security Talks
The meeting between State Minister Omar Abdi Ali and Vice Admiral Kaya focused on enhancing maritime security cooperation. Discussions centered on:
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Expanding training initiatives for the Somali Navy and Coast Guard.
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Protecting national interests, including fisheries and offshore resources.
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Strengthening strategic coordination to combat piracy and trafficking.
The Somali minister commended Turkey’s government for its support, noting that this partnership is crucial for safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty over its territorial waters—one of the longest coastlines in Africa.
Distinguished Reception
The port welcoming ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of high-ranking officials. The State Minister was accompanied by:
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Brigadier General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA).
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Brigadier General Cabdiwahaab Cabdullaahi Cumar, Commander of the Navy and Coast Guard.
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H.E. Alper Aktaş, the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia.
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The State Minister of Ports and Marine Transport.
Security measures have been substantially increased along the coastline, with reports indicating that Turkey has deployed both crewed and unmanned military aircraft to observe and safeguard the survey locations.
