Friday July 26, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali government has announced that Turkish naval forces will arrive in the country in the coming weeks under a Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement signed in February 2024.
Hussein Sheikh Ali, National Security Adviser to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, confirmed the development, stating that the Turkish Navy will train Somali naval personnel. The deployment aims to enhance Somalia's ability to counter threats like piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime security challenges.
The Turkish parliament is expected to vote on the deployment, which has stirred regional tensions. Somaliland, a self-declared independent region not recognized by Somalia, strongly opposes the deployment, citing concerns over its sovereignty. In January 2024, Somaliland and Ethiopia signed a MoU, granting Ethiopia access to Somaliland's coast in exchange for recognizing its independence.
In addition to military support, Turkey and Somalia have signed a hydrocarbon exploration agreement, allowing the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) to explore oil and gas in Somali waters. This economic cooperation underscores Turkey's regional strategic interests, including securing maritime trade routes and energy resources.
Turkey's involvement in Somalia has grown significantly since 2011, encompassing military training, infrastructure development, and humanitarian aid. In 2017, Turkey established its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu and has been instrumental in training Somali forces.
The upcoming Turkish naval deployment reflects the deepening ties between the two nations and highlights the complex geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa. As Somalia continues to rebuild its institutions, the role of foreign powers, including Turkey, remains pivotal but contentious.