Somalia and Türkiye partnership reaches strongest point, says defense minister

Somalia’s Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi said relations between Somalia and Türkiye are at their strongest level to date, pointing to expanding cooperation in security, energy, and infrastructure.

“We are truly in a better place today, and I see this relationship progressing day by day,” Fiqi told Anadolu Agency.

In February last year, Somalia’s parliament approved a ten-year defense and economic cooperation agreement with Türkiye. The deal gives Ankara responsibility for building, training, and equipping the Somali navy.

Energy cooperation has also advanced. In June, Somalia announced the completion of the first phase of offshore oil exploration with the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO). The 234-day survey by the Turkish research vessel Oruç Reis gathered seismic data to evaluate potential oil reserves.

In December, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud confirmed a $6 billion spaceport partnership with Türkiye. The project includes construction of a launch facility and testing site for Turkish missile systems.

“Seeing a satellite launched from Somalia is worth more than a few billion dollars,” Mohamud said. “It will bring investment, innovation, and jobs.”

Over the past decade, the relationship between Turkey and Somalia has deepened significantly, evolving into one of the most robust bilateral partnerships in the Horn of Africa. Turkey has emerged as Somalia’s closest and most consistent ally, offering comprehensive support across military, economic, and diplomatic domains.