Thursday March 27, 2025
Ankara (HOL) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the Presidential Palace in Ankara on Thursday to reaffirm their countries’ strategic partnership and pledge to strengthen cooperation in security, counterterrorism, and development.
According to a statement from Villa Somalia, the leaders reviewed progress on existing agreements and agreed to accelerate joint initiatives in infrastructure, trade, and humanitarian assistance. Both sides emphasized the importance of deepening military and security cooperation to combat terrorism and promote regional stability.
“Turkey has been a steadfast ally in Somalia’s journey toward stability and prosperity. Our partnership in rebuilding institutions, particularly in security and development, remains vital,” President Mohamud said.
President Erdoğan repeated the commitment, stating, “Turkey stands with Somalia in its fight against terrorism. We will continue providing technical, military, and humanitarian assistance to ensure lasting regional stability.”
The leaders also explored opportunities to expand Turkish investment in Somalia’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors. Turkey has played a central role in Somalia’s reconstruction efforts, operating its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu and managing key national assets, including the capital’s airport and seaport.
The meeting follows the recent delivery of Turkish-made Bayraktar Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) to Somalia, marking a major step forward in military cooperation.
The Akinci drones are expected to enhance Somalia’s campaign against Al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-linked militant group responsible for a prolonged insurgency in the country.
The Ankara summit highlights Turkey’s growing strategic presence in the Horn of Africa and its continued commitment to Somalia’s security and development trajectory.